Halloumi & Tomato

🍅Halloumi with Tomato Sauce – A Taste of North Cyprus

Halloumi cheese is one of the most iconic foods of Cyprus, loved for its salty, squeaky texture and ability to hold its shape when fried or grilled. In North Cyprus cuisine, halloumi is not only eaten on its own but also paired with fresh local ingredients like tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs.

One of the simplest and most traditional recipes is Halloumi with Tomato Sauce. This comforting dish combines creamy, golden-fried halloumi with a rich tomato sauce flavoured by Mediterranean herbs – the perfect balance of savoury, tangy, and fresh.
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🥗Ingredients

• 200g halloumi cheese (preferably locally produced in North Cyprus)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 400g ripe tomatoes (or tinned chopped tomatoes)
• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Freshly ground black pepper
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👨‍🍳Step-by-Step Recipe

🍳 Prepare the Halloumi
• Slice the halloumi into thick pieces.
• Heat a dry frying pan and cook the slices until golden on both sides. Set aside.

🧄Make the Tomato Sauce
• Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion until soft and translucent.
• Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Stir in the tomatoes, sugar, oregano, and black pepper.
• Simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes until the sauce thickens.

🍽️ Combine & Serve
• Add the fried halloumi slices into the tomato sauce.
• Allow the cheese to soak up the flavours for 2–3 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
• Serve warm with crusty bread or over pasta.
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😋Why This Dish is Special in North Cyprus

In North Cyprus, halloumi with tomato sauce is more than just a quick meal – it’s a dish that reflects the island’s culinary heritage. Tomatoes are grown abundantly in the fertile soil, and halloumi has been made by Cypriot families for centuries. Together, they create a comforting and hearty dish that’s as much about tradition as it is about taste.
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📝Tips & Variations

• For a spicier version, add a fresh green chilli to the sauce.
• Try serving the dish with bulgur wheat pilaf, another Cypriot staple.
• Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil before serving for added richness.
• Pair with a glass of local Cypriot wine for a true Mediterranean experience.
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🏋Health Benefits of Halloumi with Tomato Sauce

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious:

• Halloumi: A good source of protein and calcium.
• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats that are central to the Mediterranean diet.
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🌸Final Thoughts

If you want to enjoy a taste of North Cyprus at home, Halloumi with Tomato Sauce is the perfect recipe. It’s quick, easy, and showcases the island’s most beloved ingredients. Whether served as a main meal, a side dish, or part of a mezze spread, this dish is sure to impress.