Crispy sesame-crusted halloumi Burger

Crispy sesame-crusted halloumi drizzled with spicy hot honey, layered on a soft toasted brioche bun with crunchy fresh slaw and creamy sauce—this burger is an irresistible fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Perfect for a quick yet gourmet-style meal, this dish will impress any cheese lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and flavorful – The sesame-crusted halloumi develops a golden, crunchy texture with a smoky hint of paprika.
• Sweet and spicy contrast – The hot honey drizzle balances the salty cheese with a kick of heat.
• Fresh and crunchy – The vibrant slaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the rich halloumi.
• Quick and easy – Ready in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• Vegetarian-friendly – A satisfying meatless option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Halloumi:

• 1 block halloumi cheese, sliced into thick pieces
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (black and white mix)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Hot Honey:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

For the Slaw:

• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage (green and purple)
• 1/4 cup carrot, julienned
• 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 2 brioche buns, toasted
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise or spicy aioli

Directions

1. Prepare the hot honey – In a small saucepan, warm the honey over low heat. Stir in chili flakes and apple cider vinegar. Let it infuse while you prepare the halloumi.
2. Set up the breading station – Place flour in one bowl, beaten egg in another, and a mix of panko, sesame seeds, smoked paprika, and salt in the third.
3. Coat the halloumi – Dredge each slice of halloumi in flour, dip in egg, and press into the sesame-panko mixture, ensuring an even coating.
4. Fry the halloumi – Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the halloumi slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Make the slaw – Toss all slaw ingredients together in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Assemble the burger – Spread mayonnaise or spicy aioli on the toasted brioche buns. Add a generous layer of slaw, place the crispy halloumi on top, and drizzle with hot honey.
7. Serve immediately – Close the burger and enjoy while the halloumi is hot and crispy.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2 burgers
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Variations

• Extra spicy – Add more chili flakes to the hot honey or drizzle with sriracha for an extra kick.
• Vegan option – Swap halloumi for a firm tofu cutlet and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Gluten-free version – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and serve on a gluten-free bun.
• Add avocado – Slices of avocado add creaminess and balance the spice.
• Different cheese – Try paneer or a firm feta if halloumi is unavailable.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover fried halloumi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the slaw separate.
• Reheating: Reheat the halloumi in a dry pan over medium heat for 2 minutes per side or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the cheese rubbery.
• Make-ahead: The slaw and hot honey can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Can I bake the halloumi instead of frying it?

Yes, bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.

How spicy is the hot honey?

The spice level depends on the chili flakes used. Adjust the amount to your preference.

Can I use store-bought hot honey?

Yes, but homemade hot honey allows you to control the heat and sweetness.

What buns work best for this burger?

Brioche buns are ideal, but potato rolls or sesame buns also work well.

Can I grill the halloumi instead of frying?

Yes, but it won’t have the crispy crust. Lightly oil the grill and cook for 2 minutes per side.

How do I keep halloumi from getting too salty?

Soak the halloumi slices in cold water for 15-20 minutes before cooking to reduce saltiness.

Can I make this burger ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the slaw and hot honey in advance.

Is there a substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used instead of panko.

Can I air-fry the halloumi?

Yes, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What sides pair well with this burger?

Serve with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

The hot honey halloumi burger is a deliciously unique take on a classic burger, offering the perfect blend of crispy, sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this burger is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a must-try for cheese lovers and burger enthusiasts alike.