Just what is Haloumi Cheese and do I really have to like it?

Question

As a vegetarian, I'm used to there being only one or two main courses on the menu when I go out with friends. Like it or not, I often end up with a veggie burger.

But lately a lot of pubs and restaurants have started serving Haloumi burgers, instead of the ye olde traditional squished, breaded and fried junk we're used to.

But I don't really like the stuff! It's got this bizarre texture, looks disgusting and it tastes of... of... I don't know what!

Just because I'm a vegetarian, does that mean I have to be grateful for whatever junk they deign to serve up?

And just what is the Haloumi junk anyway?

Answer 1

Chelsey may be right about a few things but Haloumi, and Indian Paneer along with tofu are soured differently, I have never had Haloumi with spearmint, it is soured withan acid like panner and the Italian "ricotta" cheese which is done with vinegar or lemon juices, the greek cheese used for saganaki is non rennet based to.

Both Haloumi and Paneer are high protein cheese that can be cooked and do not melt, I would side with Chelsey try a veggie burger with beans or tofu in it, I am not familiar with your area, in Liverpool, when visiting friends, I have seen very few veg options in the pubs I have gone to, you may have to look around for another public house that is more veggie friendly.

Answer 2

Halloumi is a Cypriot cheese made of ewe's and goat's milk, flavoured with spearmint, it is quite salty and firm enough to slice and fry (it does not melt).

Tofu is much softer and not at all salty, it has very little flavour. In Japan it is sometimes chilled and eaten as is with soy sauce, bonito shavings and yuzu zest, but it is usually cooked with a fairly flavourful sauce to add some interest to the otherwise bland taste.

If you are strict vegetarian be aware that most cheese is made with rennet from calves' stomachs.