Crossword Genius

Mediterranean cheese starter in order consumed by religious leader cutting back (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

halloumi

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'mediterranean cheese' is the definition.
'halloumi' can be an answer for 'cheese' (I've seen this before). I'm not sure about the 'mediterranean' bit.

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for halloumi that I've seen before include "Cypriot goat's or sheep's milk cheese" , "Cheese from Cyprus" , "Traditional Cypriot cheese" , "Greek dish of fried goat's cheese" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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