Quick Answer

HILL-OUMI Cheese is a semi-hard halloumi-style cheese with a high melting point, so it's best grilled or fried rather than melted into a sauce. Slice it thick, cook over medium-high heat in ghee until golden, and pair it with broths or salads for a satisfying meal.

HILL-OUMI Cheese from Hill Farm is a handmade halloumi-style cheese made with fresh milk from 100% A2, 100% grass-fed cows. Its high melting point makes it a versatile cooking cheese—ideal for grilling and frying without losing its shape. Whether you're new to cooking with halloumi or want to refine your technique, these practical tips will help you get the most from every block.

Because it doesn't melt like cheddar or mozzarella, HILL-OUMI requires a different approach. Instead of aiming for a gooey melt, you're aiming for a golden, caramelized crust with a soft, squeaky interior. Here's how to do it right.

Why HILL-OUMI Cheese Doesn't Melt Like Other Cheeses

Most cheeses melt because their protein structure breaks down at relatively low temperatures. HILL-OUMI, like traditional halloumi, has a high melting point, which means it holds its shape when heated. This is due to its unique production process, where the curd is heated and pressed, giving it a firm, rubbery texture that stays intact during cooking.

This characteristic makes it perfect for grilling, frying, or even adding to skewers without falling apart. But it also means you shouldn't expect it to melt into a dip or sauce. If you want a creamy, melted texture, opt for a different cheese like cheddar or mozzarella. For a crispy, savory addition to your plate, HILL-OUMI is unbeatable.

  • Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned cast iron to prevent sticking.
  • Cut slices about 1/2-inch thick for even cooking.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.

How to Grill HILL-OUMI Cheese Perfectly

Grilling is the classic way to enjoy HILL-OUMI. The high heat creates a beautiful char and a smoky flavor that complements the salty, milky taste. Start by cutting the cheese into slices about 1/2-inch thick. Thicker slices stay soft in the center, while thinner ones become crisp all the way through.

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. You can brush the cheese lightly with oil to prevent sticking, but it's not necessary if your grill is well-seasoned. Place the slices on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden-brown grill marks appear. Don't move them too early—let them develop a crust before flipping. Serve immediately while warm and slightly soft inside.

  • For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika before grilling.
  • Grill alongside vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a complete meal.
  • If using a charcoal grill, keep the cheese away from direct flames to avoid burning.

Frying HILL-OUMI in Ghee for a Golden Crust

Frying is another excellent method, and Hill Farm recommends using their ghee for that 'just right' caramelisation. The nutty flavor of ghee pairs beautifully with the salty cheese, creating a rich, golden crust that's hard to resist. Cut the cheese into two slices (as suggested by the farm) and heat a tablespoon of ghee in a frying pan over medium heat.

Add the cheese slices and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until deeply golden and slightly puffed. The exterior will be crispy, while the inside stays soft and squeaky. Be careful not to overcook—if it browns too much, it can become tough. Serve hot, maybe with a fried egg perched on top, as the farm suggests.

  • Use a spatula to press gently on the cheese while frying for even browning.
  • Drain on paper towels to remove excess ghee before serving.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice after frying to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Serve HILL-OUMI Cheese

Beyond grilling and frying, HILL-OUMI can be used in a variety of dishes. It's a fantastic addition to salads—slice it warm and place it over greens with a light vinaigrette. The warm, salty cheese contrasts beautifully with fresh, crisp vegetables. You can also cube it and add to skewers with cherry tomatoes and olives for a quick appetizer.

The farm also suggests a 'go kebab' option—thread pieces of HILL-OUMI onto skewers and grill them alongside Hill Farm Steaks for a surf-and-turf feel. Or nestle the cheese under a grilled steak to let the juices soak into it. The possibilities are endless, but the key is to keep the cheese warm and serve it soon after cooking.

  • Pair HILL-OUMI with watermelon or figs for a sweet-salty combo.
  • Add it to a mezze platter with olives, hummus, and flatbread.
  • Use it as a topping for soups instead of croutons—it adds a savory crunch.

Pairing HILL-OUMI with Broths and Other Hill Farm Products

HILL-OUMI's salty, savory flavor makes it a natural companion to Hill Farm broths. A warm bowl of Hill Farm Whole Chicken Broth or Beef Bone Broth becomes more satisfying when you add a few slices of grilled HILL-OUMI on top. The cheese softens slightly in the hot liquid, adding a rich, meaty depth without melting away completely.

You can also crumble leftover HILL-OUMI over a broth-based grain bowl, or serve it alongside a cup of broth as a light lunch. The cheese's firm texture holds up well, so it won't turn your soup into a gooey mess. For a heartier meal, pair it with Hill Farm 'Offally Good' Beef Mince—the cheese's saltiness balances the richness of the meat.

  • Float grilled HILL-OUMI slices on top of chicken broth for a simple, nourishing soup.
  • Add crumbled HILL-OUMI to a broth-based risotto for a salty contrast.
  • Serve HILL-OUMI with a side of bone broth for a high-protein snack.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook HILL-OUMI Cheese Without It Turning Rubber

  1. Slice the cheese correctly: Cut HILL-OUMI into even slices about 1/2-inch thick. This ensures uniform cooking—too thin and it will dry out, too thick and the center may stay too firm. Checkpoint: Slices should be thick enough to hold their shape but not so thick that they're hard to chew.
  2. Preheat your pan or grill: Heat a non-stick pan or grill over medium-high heat. Add a little ghee or oil to coat the surface. Wait until it's hot before adding the cheese—this helps create a golden crust. Common mistake: Adding cheese to a cold pan causes it to stick and cook unevenly.
  3. Cook without moving too soon: Place the cheese slices in the pan and let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. Use a spatula to check if the bottom is golden brown before flipping. Checkpoint: If the cheese releases easily from the pan, it's ready to flip.
  4. Flip and cook the other side: Flip the cheese and cook for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are golden and the interior is soft but not runny. Avoid pressing down with the spatula, as this can squeeze out moisture. Common mistake: Pressing down makes the cheese tough and dry.
  5. Serve immediately with a pairing: Transfer the cooked cheese to a plate and serve right away. Add it to a salad, top a bowl of broth, or pair with eggs and steak for a complete meal. Final tip: HILL-OUMI is best enjoyed warm—it loses its soft texture as it cools.

Hill Farm Products Mentioned in This Guide

  • HILL-OUMI Cheese 200g: A tasty Halloumi Cheese handmade at Hill Farm with fresh milk from our 100% A2, 100% grass fed cows. With a high melting point, it’s great for grilling or frying. This is the star of the guide—its high melting point makes it perfect for grilling and frying, and its A2 milk base may be easier to digest for some people.
  • Hill Farm WHOLE CHICKEN BROTH 600ml: Our WHOLE CHICKEN BROTH (also known as 'Stock') is the juice from slow-cooking the whole chicken - meat, bones and all. A proper hearty chicken soup, 'for the soul' as they used to say. Pairing grilled HILL-OUMI with this broth creates a comforting, nutrient-dense meal that's easy to digest and full of flavor.
  • Hill Farm BEEF BONE BROTH 600ml: Our bone broth is made with simple ingredients. Good bones from healthy cattle, prepared correctly, pack a serious punch both in terms of flavour and nutrition. The deep, savory flavor of beef bone broth complements the salty, milky taste of HILL-OUMI, making it a great choice for a warming winter dish.

HILL-OUMI Cheese is a versatile, high-melting cheese that shines when grilled or fried. With the right technique and a few pairing ideas, you can turn it into a memorable part of your meals. Whether you're adding it to a broth, salad, or a hearty plate, these tips will help you get the most out of every bite.