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Halloumi Substitute for Paneer - Grilling Cheese Alternative

Discover how to use halloumi cheese as an excellent substitute for paneer. Learn about texture, taste, and cooking techniques for perfect results in Indian dishes.

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Quick Answer

Halloumi is an excellent substitute for paneer due to its similar firm texture and grilling properties. Use a 1:1 ratio, but note that halloumi has a saltier, more tangy flavor than paneer.

Best Substitutes

Halloumi Cheese

1:1

Cypriot grilling cheese with firm texture and salty flavor

Best for:

paneer tikkagrilled paneerkebabsstir-friescurries with shorter cooking time

Rinse briefly to reduce saltiness, works best in grilled dishes

Grilled Halloumi

1:1

Pre-grilled halloumi for immediate use in dishes

Best for:

saladswrapsquick curriesready-to-eat dishes

Grill until golden brown, then add to dishes

Rinsed Halloumi

1:1

Halloumi rinsed to reduce saltiness

Best for:

mild curriescreamy dishesdishes where salt content matters

Rinse under cold water for 30 seconds to reduce salt

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Rinse halloumi briefly under cold water to reduce saltiness
  • 💡Cut halloumi into cubes similar to paneer size (1-inch works well)
  • 💡Grill halloumi on high heat to get a golden crust
  • 💡Don't overcook halloumi as it can become rubbery
  • 💡Add halloumi towards the end of cooking in curries
  • 💡Use halloumi in dishes where the salty flavor complements the spices
  • 💡For milder flavor, soak halloumi in milk for 30 minutes before cooking
  • 💡Halloumi works best in dishes that don't require long cooking times

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Learn how to use halloumi cheese as a perfect substitute for paneer in Indian cooking. Get tips on preparation, ratios, and cooking techniques for grilled dishes.