Halloumi and Basil Stir Fry

Ingredients

• 250 grams Halloumi cheese, cubed
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 3 large Shallots, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup Fresh Thai basil leaves
• 1 medium Red bell pepper, julienned
• 1 tablespoon Soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Honey
• 0.5 teaspoon Red chili flakes(optional)
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Sesame seeds(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Pat the halloumi cubes dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy golden crust when frying.

2. 2

   Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large wok or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

3. 3

   Add the halloumi cubes to the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes, turning frequently until all sides are golden brown; remove and set aside.

4. 4

   Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan and sauté the shallots and red bell peppers for 3 minutes until softened.

5. 5

   Stir in the minced garlic and red chili flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.

6. 6

   Whisk the soy sauce and honey together in a small bowl, then pour it into the pan along with the seared halloumi.

7. 7

   Toss the mixture quickly, then turn off the heat and fold in the fresh Thai basil leaves until they just begin to wilt.

8. 8

   Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with sesame seeds before serving immediately over rice or couscous.