Bread cheese and halloumi are two types of cheese known for their unique ability to be grilled or fried without melting into a gooey mess.
While they share some common traits, there are notable differences between the two.
Bread Cheese Vs. Halloumi
Here is an overview comparing some key attributes of bread cheese and halloumi:
| Attribute | Bread Cheese | Halloumi |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Finland | Cyprus |
| Milk Source | Cow's milk | Goat's and sheep's milk |
| Texture | Squeaky, dense | Squeaky, layered |
| Taste | Mild, buttery | Tangy, briny |
| Cooking Method | Baked, grilled, fried | Grilled, fried |
| Common Uses | Coffee dip, jams, toast topping | Salads, sandwiches, kebabs |
As shown in the table, while both cheeses have a signature "squeaky" texture and hold their shape when cooked, they differ in their place of origin, production methods, flavor profiles and common culinary uses. Keep reading to learn more details about each type of cheese.
The History and Origins of Bread Cheese and Halloumi
Bread cheese, also known as juustoleipä or leipäjuusto in Finnish, hails from Northern Europe, specifically Finland. It has been a dietary staple for the indigenous Sami people for centuries.
Traditionally, bread cheese was made from reindeer milk cooked over an open fire. The high fat content of the milk allowed the cheese to be fried or baked without melting.
Modern commercial versions use cow's milk curds which are pressed and baked into loaves, giving bread cheese its characteristic dark, crusty exterior resembling toasted bread. This unique production process is how the cheese got its name.
Halloumi traces its roots to Cyprus, where it has been part of the island's cuisine and agricultural tradition for hundreds of years.
Authentic halloumi is made from a blend of goat and sheep milk. The term "halloumi" possibly originated from the Egyptian Arabic word "halum", referring to a type of cheese eaten in Medieval Egypt.
Unlike bread cheese, halloumi relies on a brining process to keep its shape when cooked. The salty brine contributes to its trademark tangy, robust flavor.
While both cheeses can be fried or grilled, bread cheese and halloumi have distinct cultural backgrounds and traditions behind them.
Ingredients and Production Process
The ingredients and techniques used to produce bread cheese and halloumi also set them apart:
Bread Cheese
- Made from cow's milk
- Rennet is added to curdle the milk
- Curds are pressed into loaf shapes
- Loaves are baked to caramelize the sugars, forming a toasted crust
- Higher fat content prevents melting
Halloumi
- Uses a blend of sheep and goat milk
- Milk is acidified to curdle
- Curds are heated and kneaded before being shaped
- Shaped cheese is stored in brine for preservation
- Lower fat content but still maintains shape when cooked
The use of different dairy sources, curdling agents, shaping methods and preservation techniques contribute to the unique textures, flavors and cooking properties of bread cheese and halloumi.
Texture and Melting Differences
When it comes to texture, both bread cheese and halloumi stand out for their dense, chewy and squeaky qualities. However, they react differently when exposed to heat:
Bread Cheese
- Firm, elastic texture
- Crispy, browned exterior when fried/baked
- Center softens without melting completely
- Holds shape well during cooking
Halloumi
- More rubbery, layered texture
- Golden brown crust when fried/grilled
- Softer, creamier interior when cooked
- Shape integrity declines more than bread cheese
Bread cheese is better at retaining its form at high temperatures, while halloumi tends to become softer and ooze slightly during the cooking process.
Key Takeaway: Bread cheese and halloumi share signature "squeaky" textures, but bread cheese maintains its shape more rigidly when fried or grilled.
How Do Bread Cheese and Halloumi Taste?
When it comes to flavor profiles, bread cheese and halloumi offer different tasting experiences:
Bread Cheese
- Creamy, smooth flavor
- Subtle sweetness from toasted exterior
- Gentle saltiness and tang
- Mild, buttery taste
Halloumi
- Pronounced salty flavor
- Tangy, almost sour dairy notes
- Slight iron-like taste from goat/sheep milk
- Robust, briny undertones from being stored in saltwater
So simply put, bread cheese tends to be more mellow and mildly sweet, almost dessert-like. Halloumi provides a stronger, saltier punch with its tangy goat/sheep milk flavors.
How to Cook and Serve Bread Cheese vs. Halloumi
When it comes to cooking methods and usage in dishes, bread cheese and halloumi offer versatility:
Cooking Techniques
Bread Cheese
- Bake to intensify toasted flavor
- Pan-fry for a crispy exterior
- Grill for smoky flavor and color
- Goes well in the air fryer
Halloumi
- Traditionally grilled in Cyprus
- Pan-fried in olive oil
- Holds up to high heat from grills
- Can be battered and deep fried
Both cheeses can be enjoyed raw straight out of the package. But exposing them to dry heat from grilling, frying or baking enhances their textures and flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Bread Cheese
- Slice and enjoy with coffee
- Top with honey, jams or berries
- Incorporate into breakfast dishes
- Pair with fruits in salad
- Use in sweet and savory recipes
Halloumi
- Sprinkle with herbs like mint or oregano
- Serve with lemon wedges
- Layer in Mediterranean sandwiches
- Skewer in hearty kebabs
- Toss in bold salads
In terms of usage, bread cheese's mild sweetness lends itself well to both sweet and savory preparations. Halloumi's robust saltiness makes it a player in savory Mediterranean dishes and sandwiches.
Availability: Where to Buy Bread Cheese and Halloumi
Bread cheese will likely be easier to source in Northern European specialty stores or international aisles. Brands like Juustoleipa or Leipajuusto are good ones to look out for.
In the Midwestern U.S., Wisconsin-based cheesemakers like Brunkow and Carr Valley also produce high quality bread cheese versions.
Halloumi has seen a surge in popularity worldwide. So you'll often find it at higher end grocery stores or specialty cheese shops, especially in areas with a large Greek or Mediterranean community. Brands like Papa's and Ilchester are reliably good.
When in doubt, check online retailers and food websites. Many offer halloumi and sometimes carry bread cheese as well.
Comparison Chart: Bread Cheese vs. Halloumi
Here is a helpful cheat sheet spotlighting some key differences between bread cheese and halloumi:
| Attribute | Bread Cheese | Halloumi |
|---|---|---|
| Place of Origin | Finland | Cyprus |
| Common Milk Source | Cow's milk | Sheep/goat milk |
| Texture | Dense, squeaky | Layered, rubbery |
| Taste | Mild, buttery | Tangy, briny |
| Cooking Methods | Baked, fried, grilled | Grilled, fried |
| Usages | Sweet and savory dishes | Mediterranean recipes |
FAQs
Is bread cheese made with actual bread?
No, there is no bread used as an ingredient in bread cheese. It gets its name from the dark toasted "crust" that forms on the exterior when the cheese curds are baked. This gives it the appearance of bread.
Can you eat halloumi raw?
Yes, halloumi can be consumed straight out of the package without cooking. Its signature salty, robust flavor will come through. However, frying, grilling or baking halloumi brings out its full potential.
What kind of milk is used to make bread cheese?
Originally made from reindeer milk, most modern commercial bread cheese versions rely on pasteurized cow's milk for more consistent production. Some artisanal cheesemakers also use goat's milk.
Why does halloumi squeak?
The layered, rubbery texture of halloumi causes it to squeak against your teeth as you chew. This noise comes from the casein proteins in the cheese responding to pressure. It's the same mechanism behind the squeakiness of cheese curds.
Can you freeze bread cheese or halloumi?
Yes, both bread cheese and halloumi freeze well for extended storage. Ensure all pieces are tightly wrapped before placing in air-tight containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Conclusion
While bread cheese and halloumi share the ability to be fried and grilled without melting away, they offer their own distinct qualities.
Bread cheese has a mild sweetness perfect for both savory and sweet dishes, while halloumi's bold salty flavor shines in Mediterranean cuisine.
Their differences in origin, ingredients and production techniques ultimately result in unique, mouthwatering cheese experiences worth savoring.