CYPRUS’S UNIQUE RUBBERY CHEESE
A CYPRIOT STAPLE
With its origins dating back nearly 2,000 years, Halloumi Cheese has a deep-rooted history in Cyprus. It all began when Cypriots of old decided to use a combination of sheep and goat milk to produce a long-lasting cheese to supplement their simple yet varied diet. Today, Halloumi Cheese is a Cypriot staple that is consumed across the island. Although the recipe, as well as the main ingredients have remained the same for several years, local farmers and cheese makers have recently added a proportional amount of cow’s milk to it. This has allowed them to perfect the delicate balance of its flavours and textures that has made Halloumi Cheese what it is today.Â
A UNIQUE TEXTURE
Halloumi cheese is a culinary delight that is sure to please even the most discerning cheese lovers. Unlike any others, this flavourful and in many ways versatile cheese sets itself apart because of its unique taste, texture, and unique cooking properties. Although often consumed raw, this cheese can also be grilled, or fried to compliment a typical Cypriot breakfast. This is possible because unlike other cheese, it does not lose its consistency when heat is applied. Instead Halloumi maintains a firm, slightly rubbery consistency.Â
A VERSATILE INGREDIENT
Halloumi cheese can be enjoyed on its own or used to supplement other Cypriot delicacies. It is also used as a versatile ingredient in a variety of mainstream Cypriot dishes. These include soups and pasta-based dishes. It is also forms an obvious ingredient for sandwiches and in some cases is used to supplement salads. As the cheese pairs well with a variety of flavours and spices, it has become a popular choice for modern fusion cuisine the world over. This has allowed it to gain in popularity internationally, with chefs and food enthusiasts embracing its unique taste and cooking properties.
HEALTH BENEFITS
One of the key health benefits of Halloumi Cheese is its high protein content. Protein is important for muscle growth and repair. Halloumi Cheese, as a result, has become a great supplement for vegetarians who may struggle to get enough protein in their diets. This cheese, like all dairy products, is also a good source of calcium, making it an essential supplement for strong bones and teeth. Calcium also plays a role in nerve function and muscle contractions and helps to prevent osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions. Also a good source of zinc, Halloumi Cheese is rich in vitamin A and vitamin B12.
A CULTURAL IDENTITY
Halloumi cheese can be enjoyed on its own or used to supplement other Cypriot delicacies or meals. It is often used as a versatile ingredient in a variety of mainstream Cypriot dishes. These include several soups and pasta-based dishes. Halloumi Cheese is also added to salads and is often a main ingredient for the famous Cypriot hot sandwich. As the cheese pairs well with a variety of flavours and spices, it has also managed to gain popularity internationally. Many world chefs and food enthusiasts, the world over, have embraced its unique taste, whilst ustelising its unique cooking properties. As a result, several have successfully introduced Halloumi Cheese by making it a popular choice for modern fusion cuisine the world over. Several have also included Halloumi Cheese in some form or another in several of their signature dishes.
