Mary Berry Halloumi And Sweet Potato Fries Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a deliciously unique twist on your usual snack or side dish, Mary Berry’s Halloumi and Sweet Potato Fries recipe is an absolute must-try!

Combining the crispy, savory goodness of halloumi with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes creates a flavor explosion that is both satisfying and addictive. It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes, and it’s super easy to make, whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a fun side to accompany your meal. Trust me, once you try it, this flavorful combo will be your new go-to for any occasion!

Mary Berry Halloumi And Sweet Potato Fries Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Halloumi and Sweet Potato Fries, you’ll need a selection of fresh ingredients that create the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Halloumi Cheese (200g): Halloumi is a firm, brined cheese from Cyprus. Known for its slightly salty flavor and its unique ability to hold its shape when cooked, it’s ideal for this recipe. It adds a savory, satisfying bite to the dish, providing a wonderful contrast to the sweet potatoes.

• Sweet Potatoes (2 large): The star of the fries!

  Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet with a rich, creamy texture when baked. They are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. Choose firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes for the best texture when baked or fried.

• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Olive oil is essential for crisping up both the fries and the halloumi. It adds a nice, light richness without overwhelming the other flavors. It also helps to achieve a beautifully golden, crisp exterior on the fries.

• Fresh Rosemary (1-2 sprigs): Fresh rosemary adds a fragrant, piney aroma and deepens the flavor of the sweet potatoes. You can either chop it finely to sprinkle over the fries or leave it in sprigs to infuse the oil while cooking.

• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Paprika is used to give a warm, smoky flavor to the fries. Its subtle heat and smokiness pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the potatoes, creating a well-rounded dish.

• Salt and Pepper: A simple but crucial seasoning combination. Salt enhances the flavors of the fries and halloumi, while pepper adds a mild, earthy heat to balance the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

• Lemon (1, for serving): A wedge of fresh lemon is a fantastic addition. The bright acidity of lemon cuts through the richness of the halloumi and adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting fries.

With these ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying, combining the crunchiness of fries with the creaminess of halloumi and a fragrant rosemary kick.

Equipment Needed

The equipment required for Mary Berry’s Halloumi and Sweet Potato Fries is fairly simple, but it ensures the dish is cooked to perfection:

• Baking Tray: A large baking tray is essential for roasting the sweet potato fries. Choose one with a raised edge to prevent any juices from spilling over. A non-stick or parchment paper-lined tray will help prevent the fries from sticking and make clean-up easier.

• Sharp Knife: A good, sharp knife is necessary for slicing the sweet potatoes and halloumi. For the sweet potatoes, you’ll want to cut them into even-sized fries to ensure they cook uniformly. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts without bruising the potatoes.

• Peeler: If you prefer, you can peel the sweet potatoes before slicing them into fries, but this is optional. The skin adds texture and flavor, so many people choose to leave it on.

• Large Bowl: This will be used to toss the sweet potatoes and halloumi with olive oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary. A large bowl ensures that all the pieces are evenly coated in seasoning.

• Cooking Tongs or Spatula: These are handy for flipping the fries and turning the halloumi during cooking. Using tongs or a spatula ensures you don’t break the fries and halloumi while moving them around.

• Grater or Knife for Halloumi: While Mary Berry’s recipe may not specifically call for grated halloumi, some prefer to shred the cheese into smaller pieces for quicker cooking. A coarse grater or knife will work here.

• Serving Plates or Bowls: You’ll need a plate or serving dish to arrange the fries and halloumi after baking. A shallow bowl works well to showcase the colorful fries and golden halloumi.

Having these pieces of equipment ensures that you have everything you need to make the recipe efficient and enjoyable.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Halloumi And Sweet Potato Fries

Making Mary Berry’s Halloumi and Sweet Potato Fries is simple yet rewarding. Follow these steps for a deliciously crispy dish:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F. This high temperature ensures that the sweet potato fries cook through and crisp up nicely.

2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash and peel the sweet potatoes if you prefer, or leave the skin on for added texture. Slice the sweet potatoes into even fries, making sure they are roughly the same size for uniform cooking. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

3. Season the Fries: Drizzle the sweet potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle with paprika, salt, pepper, and fresh rosemary (either chopped or whole sprigs). Toss the sweet potatoes in the bowl until they are evenly coated in the seasoning.

4. Arrange on a Baking Tray: Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries evenly on a baking tray. Make sure they are laid out in a single layer to allow for even roasting. You can line the tray with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

5. Cook the Fries: Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast the fries for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, turn the fries with a spatula to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. They should be golden and crisp on the outside while soft on the inside.

6. Prepare the Halloumi: While the sweet potatoes are cooking, slice the halloumi into thick slices, about 1cm wide. Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat, and add a little olive oil. Once hot, add the halloumi slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden and crisp.

7. Serve: Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and plate them with the crispy halloumi. Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top for added brightness and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

To elevate your Mary Berry Halloumi and Sweet Potato Fries, try these expert tips:

• Use Sweet Potatoes with Firm Flesh: Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and smooth to ensure they cook evenly and don’t turn mushy. Look for sweet potatoes that are not too large or small, as this affects the texture and cooking time.

• Cut Fries Evenly: The key to perfectly roasted fries is cutting them into even pieces. This ensures that they cook uniformly and have a similar texture throughout.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Tray: When roasting the fries, make sure they are spread out in a single layer. Overcrowding the tray can cause the fries to steam instead of crisp up, leading to soggy fries.

• Serve with a Dip: To complement the rich flavors of halloumi, serve the fries with a tangy yogurt-based dip or a simple tzatziki. The coolness of the dip provides a wonderful contrast to the warmth of the fries and cheese.

• Experiment with Seasonings: While the paprika and rosemary combination is delicious, feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Thyme, garlic powder, or even chili flakes can add different layers of flavor to your fries.

• Grill the Halloumi: For a slightly smoky flavor, you can also grill the halloumi instead of frying it. This adds a nice char and further enhances the depth of flavor.

Mary Berry’s Halloumi and Sweet Potato Fries is an exceptional dish that combines the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory, slightly salty notes of grilled halloumi cheese. The combination of textures-from the crispiness of the fries to the squeaky, golden cheese-makes for a delightful snack or side dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

With simple ingredients and minimal equipment, this dish is a perfect choice for both experienced and novice cooks alike. Whether you serve it as a light meal, appetizer, or a side to a main, it’s guaranteed to impress with its rich flavor and beautiful presentation.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Halloumi And Sweet Potato Fries

Mary Berry’s Halloumi and Sweet Potato Fries recipe offers a delightful combination of crispy, golden fries with the salty, squeaky texture of halloumi. While the base recipe is already packed with flavor, you can easily mix things up and create variations that will excite your taste buds. Let’s explore a few ideas:

1. Spicy Sweet Potato Fries with Halloumi

   If you love a bit of heat, try adding chili powder or smoked paprika to your sweet potatoes before baking them. For extra spice, toss the fries in cayenne pepper or drizzle them with sriracha after baking. Pairing this with halloumi gives a wonderful contrast between the heat and the mellow, slightly tangy cheese.

2. Herb-Infused Fries and Halloumi

   Infuse extra flavor by adding fresh or dried herbs to your fries. Rosemary, thyme, and oregano work especially well with sweet potatoes, creating a fragrant and herby profile. You can also sprinkle some herbs over the halloumi slices as they cook, allowing the herbs to crisp up and enhance the flavor.

3. Crispy Sweet Potato and Halloumi with a Balsamic Glaze

   To bring a sophisticated twist to the dish, drizzle a balsamic reduction over the sweet potato fries and halloumi. The acidity of the balsamic complements the rich sweetness of the potatoes and the savory halloumi. This variation makes for a more refined, restaurant-style dish that’s perfect for impressing guests.

4. Sweet and Savory Combo with Honey and Nuts

   For a sweet and savory contrast, drizzle honey over the crispy fries and halloumi after baking. You can even top it off with chopped roasted nuts like walnuts or pecans. The honey brings out the sweetness in the potatoes, and the nuts add a lovely crunch that complements the chewy texture of the halloumi.

5. Mediterranean Twist

   Inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean, try seasoning your sweet potato fries with za’atar, a fragrant blend of herbs like thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. For an added layer of flavor, serve your halloumi fries with a side of tzatziki sauce, a refreshing Greek yogurt dip that adds a cooling element to the dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

When it comes to leftovers, halloumi and sweet potato fries are still a treat if stored properly. However, because both components are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, the storage and reheating process can make or break the meal. Here are some best practices:

1. Cool Down Before Storing

   To preserve the texture of your sweet potato fries and halloumi, let them cool down to room temperature before storing. Storing them while hot can lead to condensation, making the fries soggy. Place them on a wire rack or paper towel to absorb any excess moisture before putting them in a container.

2. Use an Airtight Container

   Store the leftovers in an airtight container to prevent air from seeping in and causing them to lose their crispiness. It’s best to separate the fries and halloumi into different compartments or containers, as they might reheat at different rates.

3. Refrigeration

   Keep your leftover sweet potato fries and halloumi in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to 2 days. While they may not stay as crispy as when fresh, they should retain their flavor. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them (though the texture will change after reheating).

4. Reheating for the Best Texture

   The key to reheating your leftovers without losing their crispiness is to avoid using a microwave. Instead, reheat in a preheated oven or a toaster oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

   If you have an air fryer, this is a great option for getting both the fries and the halloumi crispy again. If using a stovetop, heat the fries in a frying pan over medium heat, using a tiny amount of oil to help them crisp up again.

What Goes Well With Halloumi And Sweet Potato Fries

Halloumi and sweet potato fries are versatile and pair well with various sides, sauces, and drinks, making them suitable for different occasions. Whether you’re enjoying them as a main course or as a side dish, here are some pairings that elevate the meal:

1. Dips and Sauces

   Halloumi fries and sweet potato fries shine when paired with tasty dips. A classic choice is tzatziki, the creamy, garlicky Greek yogurt dip with cucumber. For something spicier, opt for sriracha mayo or chipotle aioli. For a refreshing and tangy twist, a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil will do wonders. You can also dip them in a balsamic glaze, especially if you’ve made the balsamic-glazed variation mentioned earlier.

2. Fresh Salad

   A simple green salad is an excellent complement to the richness of halloumi and the sweetness of the fries. Consider a Mediterranean-style salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onion. The freshness and acidity of the salad contrast wonderfully with the indulgence of the fries and cheese. Alternatively, a spinach and arugula salad with a light vinaigrette would balance the meal’s flavors.

3. Grilled Meats or Fish

   If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or beef pair excellently with this dish. A grilled chicken breast seasoned with Mediterranean herbs like oregano and lemon, or grilled lamb chops with garlic and rosemary, adds a savory, protein-packed component to your meal. For seafood lovers, grilled salmon or shrimp skewers complement the sweetness of the fries and the saltiness of the halloumi beautifully.

4. Roasted Vegetables

   If you’re craving more vegetables, roasted options such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots work wonderfully with the sweet potato fries and halloumi. The roasting process enhances the vegetables’ natural sweetness, making them a great match for the crispy fries and rich cheese.

5. Beverages

   To round out your meal, consider a crisp and refreshing beverage. White wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling pairs nicely with the dish, cutting through the richness of the halloumi and balancing the sweetness of the potatoes. If you prefer a non-alcoholic drink, an iced herbal tea (think mint or chamomile) provides a soothing, fresh contrast. For something more tropical, a citrusy lemonade or fresh lime soda would enhance the sweet, savory flavors.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Halloumi and Sweet Potato Fries is a deliciously versatile dish that combines two beloved ingredients-crispy, flavorful sweet potatoes and the chewy, salty goodness of halloumi. Whether you’re sticking with the classic recipe or exploring variations, the possibilities are endless.

Experiment with different seasonings, dips, and pairings to elevate the dish to new heights. Proper storage and reheating methods ensure that you can enjoy this meal for days to come, making it an easy, delicious go-to for busy evenings or casual gatherings. Whether served as a side dish or a main, Halloumi and Sweet Potato Fries have a unique ability to satisfy a variety of tastes, making it an instant favorite in any kitchen.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients For Mary Berry’s Halloumi And Sweet Potato Fries Recipe?

The main ingredients include halloumi cheese, sweet potatoes, olive oil, paprika, garlic, and some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. A few basic seasonings such as salt and pepper are also needed for flavor.

Can I Use A Different Cheese Instead Of Halloumi For This Recipe?

While halloumi is ideal due to its firm texture and ability to fry well, you can substitute it with other firm cheeses like paneer or firm tofu for a similar effect, though the flavor may vary slightly.

How Do I Prepare The Sweet Potatoes For This Recipe?

To prepare the sweet potatoes, peel them (optional) and cut them into fries or wedges. Then toss them in olive oil, paprika, garlic, and any other spices you like before baking or frying.

How Long Does It Take To Cook The Sweet Potato Fries In The Oven?

The sweet potato fries should be baked at 200°C (400°F) for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.

What Is The Best Way To Cook Halloumi For This Recipe?

Halloumi can be grilled, pan-fried, or baked. For this recipe, it’s typically pan-fried in a little olive oil, just until it becomes golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version of this recipe by replacing the halloumi with a vegan cheese alternative or using grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for added texture.

How Can I Make The Sweet Potato Fries Extra Crispy?

To make the sweet potato fries extra crispy, try soaking them in water for about 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch. You can also coat them with a thin layer of cornstarch before baking to enhance the crunch.

Is This Recipe Suitable For Meal Prep?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep!

The sweet potato fries and halloumi can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Halloumi And Sweet Potato Fries?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, a tangy yogurt dip, or a zesty tomato salsa. It can also be served as a side dish with grilled meats or a vegetarian main dish.

Can I Fry The Sweet Potato Fries Instead Of Baking Them?

Yes, you can fry the sweet potato fries instead of baking them. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pan and fry the fries in batches until golden and crispy. Make sure to drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.