Ingredients

For the Hot Honey

• ½ cup (120 ml) honey
• 1 tablespoon chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Pinch of sea salt

For the Halloumi

• 2 blocks (250 g each) halloumi cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)

Garlic Herb Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Crunchy Slaw

• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup grated carrot
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper

Burger Assembly

• 4 brioche burger buns
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• Butter lettuce leaves
• Pickles (optional)
• Fresh rocket or arugula
• Butter for toasting buns

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Hot Honey

1. Add the honey, chili flakes, smoked paprika, cayenne, vinegar, and salt to a small saucepan.
2. Heat gently over low heat for 3–5 minutes without boiling.
3. Stir well and allow the flavors to infuse.
4. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2 – Make the Garlic Sauce

In a bowl, combine:

• Mayonnaise
• Greek yogurt
• Garlic
• Lemon juice
• Parsley
• Dijon mustard

Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3 – Prepare the Slaw

Mix together:

• Cabbage
• Carrot
• Mayonnaise
• Apple cider vinegar
• Honey

Season with salt and pepper. Toss well and chill.

Step 4 – Cook the Halloumi

1. Slice each block of halloumi into thick burger-sized pieces.
2. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. Sprinkle lightly with black pepper.
4. For extra crunch, lightly coat with panko breadcrumbs.
5. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Cook the halloumi for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
7. Immediately drizzle each slice with warm hot honey. Halloumi is best served freshly cooked so it stays crisp outside and tender inside.

Step 5 – Toast the Buns

Spread butter on the cut sides of the brioche buns and toast in a skillet for 1–2 minutes until golden.

Step 6 – Assemble the Burgers

1. Spread garlic herb sauce on the bottom bun.
2. Add lettuce or rocket.
3. Place two slices of hot honey halloumi.
4. Add tomato slices.
5. Layer on avocado.
6. Add red onion.
7. Spoon over the crunchy slaw.
8. Drizzle with extra hot honey.
9. Add pickles if desired.
10. Finish with the top bun.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Crispy French fries
• Sweet potato fries
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Fresh green salad
• Potato wedges
• Lemon iced tea or homemade lemonade

Chef’s Tips

• Dry the halloumi before cooking for a crispier crust.
• Use a non-stick or cast-iron pan to achieve even browning.
• Warm the honey gently rather than boiling it to preserve its flavor.
• Toasting the buns adds texture and helps prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Assemble the burgers just before serving for the best texture.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Burger)

• Calories: 650–750 kcal
• Protein: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fat: 42 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 16 g
• Sodium: 1,300 mg