What’s halloumi?
Originating from Cyprus, halloumi is a semi-hard, un-ripened, brined cheese that may be constructed from cow, sheep or goat’s milk. It may be eaten uncooked however is really scrumptious cooked, having a excessive melting level, makes it a superb selection for grilling or frying.
To make halloumi, milk is heated and rennet or vegetarian rennet is added. As soon as cooled, the curds and whey naturally separate. The curds are then left to agency up, after which they’re poached within the whey with a little bit salt, after which stored in brine to protect the cheese.
Uncover our full vary of well being profit guides and take a look at a few of our favorite halloumi recipes, from our spicy cauliflower and halloumi rice to our pumpkin, halloumi and chilli omelette.
Dietary profile of halloumi
An 30g serving supplies:
94 Kcal / 391 KJ7.2g protein7.0g fat0.5g carbohydrate238mg calcium0.90g salt
Prime well being advantages of halloumi
1. Wealthy in bone-friendly calcium
Halloumi, like different dairy meals, is wealthy in calcium, a mineral we’d like for muscle and nerve perform in addition to robust wholesome bones and tooth. A portion (80g) provides a big contribution in the direction of your day by day calcium wants, one thing which is of significance for all life-stages.
2. A helpful supply of protein
Protein is crucial for good well being with muscle, pores and skin and blood all shaped from this important macronutrient, we’d like sufficient quantities in our weight loss plan for cells and tissues to develop, develop and restore.
3. Might cut back the danger of sort 2 diabetes
Apparently a examine means that commonly consuming full fats dairy throughout adolescence could cut back the danger of diabetes and insulin resistance in later life. The precise mechanisms for this will not be absolutely understood however could, partially, be because of the excessive ranges of protein and fats which slows digestion and helps stabilise blood sugar ranges.
4. Might preserve you fuller for longer
Being wealthy in protein and fats and full on flavour, cheese like halloumi helps to maintain us fuller and extra glad for longer. The punchy flavours of halloumi imply you don’t want to make use of very a lot to realize a flavour-packed dish.
5. A helpful meat alternative
With a excessive protein content material, halloumi is a filling cheese and its versatility make it well-liked for these searching for a protein-rich meat alternative. Though, bear in mind not all halloumi cheese is vegetarian-friendly as some are produced utilizing animal-derived rennet, so examine labels.
The feel and cooking properties of halloumi additionally make it a simple option to substitute meat in dishes resembling burgers and kebabs.
Is halloumi protected for everybody?
Being a dairy product these allergic or illiberal of milk ought to keep away from halloumi; additionally it is not appropriate for vegans, Nutritionally, there isn’t an excessive amount of distinction between various kinds of halloumi. In case you are delicate to lactose, you could discover sheep or goat’s halloumi simpler to digest – communicate to your GP or dietitian in the event you’re involved about meals allergic reactions or intolerances.
Halloumi is excessive in salt so in the event you’ve been suggested to observe your salt consumption it will not be the best choice for you. Some supermarkets provide a ‘mild halloumi’ which has a decreased whole fats content material, however the saturated fats and salt ranges should be excessive. It’s at all times value checking labels for the diet info so you can also make an knowledgeable selection.
So, is halloumi wholesome?
Due to its excessive protein content material, halloumi is a wholesome selection for anybody who would not eat meat. Not solely is it an excellent supply of calcium, which we’d like for wholesome bones, it is also filling resulting from its appreciable fats content material. So long as you eat it carefully, halloumi may actually be a wholesome addition to your meals.
Now attempt…
Learn to cook dinner with halloumiHalloumi fritters with coriander dipBean and halloumi stewTop 10 healthiest cheesesWhich milk is best for you?Spiced halloumi & pineapple burger with zingy slawCumin-spiced halloumi with corn & tomato slawBeetroot & halloumi salad with pomegranate & dill
This web page was reviewed on twenty fourth February 2025 by Kerry Torrens
Nicola Shubrook is a dietary therapist and works with each non-public purchasers and the company sector. She is an accredited member of the British Affiliation for Utilized Vitamin and Dietary Remedy (BANT) and the Complementary & Pure Healthcare Council (CNHC). Discover out extra at urbanwellness.co.uk.
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