How to Grill Halloumi Perfectly Every Time | Papas Halloumi South Africa

At Papas Halloumi, we’re more than just cheesemakers, we’re a family passionate about sharing authentic Cypriot halloumi with South Africans. For us, halloumi isn’t just food, it’s heritage, tradition, and love made fresh in every block.

There’s nothing quite like hearing halloumi sizzle on the braai. Golden on the outside, soft on the inside, with that unmistakable squeak, it’s become a favourite across South Africa. But to get it just right, there are a few tricks. That’s why we’ve put together our Top 10 tips to help you grill Papas Halloumi perfectly every time.

1. Slice it Thick

Start with quality cheese. Papas Halloumi slices best into 1cm cuts that hold together beautifully on the grill. Thin slices may fall apart, and overly thick ones won’t heat through.

2. Oil it Lightly

Brush your Papas Halloumi with a touch of olive oil. It prevents sticking, adds flavour, and helps it turn that gorgeous golden brown over the coals.

3. Get the Heat Just Right

Halloumi is at its best over medium-high heat. On a braai, wait until the coals are glowing. Too hot and it’ll burn; too low and you won’t get that crisp edge we all love.

4. Don’t Overcook

Papas Halloumi cooks quickly — 2–3 minutes per side is all you need. Overcooking can make it rubbery, and we want you to enjoy it at its best: soft, warm, and delicious.

5. Season with a Twist

Our family loves keeping it simple but tasty:

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
  
• A sprinkle of oregano or chilli flakes
  
• A drizzle of honey for a sweet-and-salty combo
  

6. Serve It Hot

Grilled halloumi is made to be enjoyed straight off the braai. At Papas Halloumi, we often serve it to friends and family while the meat is still on the fire — it’s the ultimate braai starter.

7. Pair It with Braai Favourites

Papas Halloumi fits right into the South African braai tradition. Add it alongside boerewors, chops, or grilled veggies for a platter that’s both authentic and lekker.

8. Use Skewers for Easy Grilling

Our family trick: cube Papas Halloumi and thread it onto skewers with peppers, onions, or mushrooms. It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for sharing.

9. Mix It into Salads and Wraps

Grilled halloumi adds a burst of flavour to almost anything. Toss Papas Halloumi into a fresh summer salad or wrap it in pita with tomato, cucumber, and tzatziki — a Cypriot favourite now loved in South Africa.

10. Always Choose Papas Halloumi

The secret to perfect halloumi is starting with the right cheese. Papas Halloumi is proudly family-owned, homemade, and authentic — crafted with love and tradition, right here in South Africa. Already available in supermarkets nationwide, it’s the fast-growing halloumi brand South Africans trust for quality and flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does halloumi squeak when you eat it?
That squeak is the protein structure of the cheese, a sign of authentic, high-quality halloumi like Papas Halloumi.

Can you grill halloumi straight from the fridge?
Yes, but letting it rest at room temperature for a few minutes helps it cook more evenly.

Is halloumi good for braais?
Absolutely! Papas Halloumi is the ultimate braai cheese because it grills beautifully without melting away.

Why Papas Halloumi?

We’re a family-run business that takes pride in making halloumi the traditional Cypriot way, while producing it fresh for South Africa. Every block of Papas Halloumi is homemade, authentic, and made with love.

When you grill Papas Halloumi, you’re not just enjoying cheese — you’re sharing in our family story, our heritage, and our passion for good food.

Discover more at papashalloumi.com