Trio of Deep Fried Halloumi, Mac and Cheese Bites and Frickles

The Trio of Deep Fried Halloumi, Mac and Cheese Bites and Frickles is a modern pub-style appetizer platter that combines three deep-fried comfort foods on one plate. The dish draws from distinct culinary traditions: halloumi, a Cypriot cheese that holds its shape when heated, became popular in British and European frying culture; mac and cheese bites repurpose the classic American casserole into portable, breaded nuggets; and frickles—fried pickle chips—originate in the Southern United States as a staple of bar food and state fairs.

A great version of this trio hinges on achieving contrasting textures. Each component must be fried to a golden, shatteringly crisp crust while the interiors remain distinct: halloumi should be squeaky and salty, mac and cheese bites oozy and creamy, and frickles stay crunchy with a tangy brine cut. Proper draining and seasoning—often with flaky salt, cayenne, or ranch seasoning—are essential. The dish is commonly served with dipping sauces such as sriracha mayo, chipotle aioli, or a cool dill dip to balance the richness.

Regional variations exist: some kitchens swap the cheeses, using mozzarella sticks or fried cheddar curds instead of halloumi, while others substitute fried pickle spears for chips. In the United Kingdom, the trio is increasingly found on gastropub menus, often as a sharer. At Dillons in Llangefni, Regno Unito, the venue offers this exact combination, as documented by the food creator Only Scrans. The platter exemplifies the trend toward curated fried-food boards, appealing to diners who want a variety of textures and flavors in a single, indulgent starter.