Halloumi Shaslik

Halloumi Shaslik, a delightful and flavorful dish that features tandoor-marinated halloumi cheese, grilled with cubes of onion and peppers. A dish I was told about from Cafe Spice in London. Interesting vegan take! This recipe serves two people.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (use a plant-based yogurt for a vegan option)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

For the Skewers:

• 200 grams halloumi cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes (use a vegan halloumi cheese substitute)
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)

Preparation

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a bowl, combine the plant-based yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, ginger-garlic paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric powder, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are well incorporated.
   • Add the chopped fresh cilantro if using.
2. Marinate the Halloumi and Vegetables:
   • Add the halloumi cubes, bell pepper pieces, and onion pieces to the marinade. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly.
   • Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 2-3 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
   • Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
   • Thread the marinated halloumi, bell peppers, and onion pieces onto the skewers, alternating between the different vegetables and halloumi for a colorful presentation.
4. Grill the Skewers:
   • Brush the grill grates with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
   • Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, and the halloumi is golden and crispy on the outside.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
   • Serve the halloumi shaslik hot with a side of chutney, salad, or naan bread.