RECIPE: EASY HALLOUMI FLATBREAD

Over the past six months, inspired by social media, I’ve started cooking this particular dish that’s become a staple in our household. We typically pair it with tzatziki, though it complements various dressings depending on your preference. To boost our weekly vegetable intake, we often serve it alongside a fresh salad. The best part? This dish is incredibly easy to make gluten-free. Simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free alternative, and you’re all set—the flatbread tastes amazing.

Shopping List:

  • For the Flatbreads:
    • All-purpose flour (US) / Plain flour (EU)
    • Baking powder
    • Salt
    • Greek yogurt
    • Olive oil
  • For the Halloumi Filling:
    • Halloumi cheese
    • Olive oil
    • Hummus
    • Fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, cabbage, pomegranate seeds)
    • Fresh herbs (e.g., mint, parsley)
    • Optional: Hot honey or chili-infused honey

Ingredients:

For the Flatbreads:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (US) / 250 grams plain flour (EU)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (US) / 250 grams Greek yogurt (EU)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Halloumi Filling:

  • 8 ounces halloumi cheese (US) / 225 grams halloumi cheese (EU), sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup hummus (US) / 250 grams hummus (EU)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots (US) / 100 grams shredded carrots (EU)
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage (US) / 100 grams shredded cabbage (EU)
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (US) / 80 grams pomegranate seeds (EU)
  • Fresh mint or parsley leaves, chopped
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons hot honey or chili-infused honey

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Flatbreads:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
    • Add the Greek yogurt and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
    • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth.
    • Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into discs approximately 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) thick.
    • Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Cook each flatbread for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown spots appear. Keep the cooked flatbreads warm by covering them with a clean kitchen towel.
  2. Prepare the Halloumi Filling:
    • Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the halloumi slices and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Assemble the Flatbreads:
    • Spread a generous layer of hummus over each warm flatbread.
    • Top with the fried halloumi slices.
    • Add shredded carrots, cabbage, pomegranate seeds, and chopped herbs.
    • Drizzle with hot honey or chili-infused honey if desired.
    • Fold or roll the flatbreads to enclose the filling. Serve immediately.

Tzatziki

Tzatziki is a classic Greek sauce known for its creamy texture and refreshing flavors here’s a simple recipe to prepare homemade tzatziki:

Ingredients:

  • 1 English cucumber
  • 2 cups (500 grams) plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cucumber:
    • Grate the cucumber using a box grater.
    • Place the grated cucumber in a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
    • Afterward, press or squeeze the cucumber to remove as much liquid as possible. This step ensures the tzatziki remains thick and creamy.
  2. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the strained cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill (if using), olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
    • Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
  3. Chill and Serve:
    • Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tzatziki for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
    • Before serving, give it a quick stir and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve tzatziki as a dip with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
  • Use it as a sauce for grilled meats, such as lamb or chicken.
  • Add it to sandwiches or wraps for a refreshing touch.

Tips:

  • For a thicker consistency, consider straining the Greek yogurt through a cheesecloth for a few hours before mixing.
  • Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
  • Fresh mint can be used instead of dill for a different flavor profile.