Blog 2 Overlooked Tricks on How to Properly Store Cheese
08 October, 2024

2 Overlooked Tricks on How to Properly Store Cheese

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Cheese is a beloved delight enjoyed all over the world, gracing the tables of fine dining restaurants and everyday kitchens alike. Its versatility knows no limits as it brings a distinct flavor and delightful texture to all kinds of recipes. Having said that, one must not overlook the importance of storing cheese correctly to preserve its taste, texture, and aroma.

With a few simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your cheese stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Read on to learn how to properly store cheese to keep it as fresh as ever. 

Wrapping it 

Storing cheese the right way is essential for preserving its flavor and texture. Cheese paper, waxed, or parchment paper are all great options to do just that. Wrapping cheese in these types of paper allows the cheese to “breathe,” meaning that it is protected from the elements while still allowing some air circulation. This helps keep the cheese moist and flavorful.

Cheese paper is the ideal option for soft, semi-soft, and semi-hard cheeses. Cheese paper is specifically designed to keep cheese fresh and flavorful. It is made from cotton or linen and is lightly treated with a wax or mineral oil-based substance. 

Waxed or parchment paper are also suitable for storing soft (like the finest Greek feta cheese), semi-soft, and semi-hard cheeses (like Gouda). They are slightly less ideal than cheese paper, as they are not as breathable, but they still protect the cheese from the environment.

No matter which type of paper you choose, it is essential to ensure the cheese is completely covered. It helps keep the cheese from drying out and losing moisture. It is also necessary to change the paper periodically to help keep the cheese in the best condition possible.

Storing at the right temperature

Temperature is an essential factor in cheese's flavor and texture. While cold cheese can be enjoyed as a delicacy, cold temperatures may be needed to maintain the taste and texture of cheese. The best temperature for cheese is usually between 40 and 53°F. 

Cheese should always be stored in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. A refrigerator is an ideal environment for cheese storage, though keeping the temperature between 40°F and 53°F  is necessary. 

Cheese likes to be kept at a cool, steady temperature. When cheese is stored below 40°F, the fats and proteins begin to separate. It can cause the texture of the cheese to become crumbly and dry. The flavor of the cheese can also become muted and less complex.

When cheese is stored at temperatures above 53°F, it can spoil more quickly. It can cause the cheese to become slimy and the flavor to become bitter and unpleasant.

Savor cheese and store with care!

It is essential to understand the intricacies of proper cheese storage to ensure the long-term satisfaction of cheese lovers. Whether it be the finest Greek feta cheese or classic cheddar, adequate storage is key. 

With the proper knowledge of the appropriate temperature, humidity, and packaging, cheese lovers can enjoy their favorite cheese for months, if not years, to come.

Now that you know how to store cheeses properly, you can confidently buy the finest cheeses out there with Baladna. Our 24,000 cows are in a comfortable and well-conditioned environment, making their cheeses one of the best in the market. Shop now!

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Blog 7 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Halloumi Cheese
14 May, 2024

7 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Halloumi Cheese

When it comes to the world of cheese, halloumi cheese easily steals the show – it’s firm, it’s delicious, and it can be cooked in so many different ways. Whether you're in the mood for grilled cheese or raw cheese, halloumi is the perfect choice. And on top of all that, its salty flavor makes it a great addition to a variety of different side dishes. If you're looking to take your halloumi game to the next level, we've got your backs. Here are the top seven side dishes that go perfectly well with halloumi cheese: 1. Tomato Zaatar SoupTomato Zaatar Soup is a delicious side dish that goes really well with halloumi cheese. This soup is made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices, including zaatar, a Middle Eastern spice blend that is made up of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds. The zaatar's nutty flavor pairs well with fried bite-sized halloumi cheese. 2. Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes & MintPasta with cherry tomatoes and mint is the perfect side dish to pair with halloumi cheese. This delicious dish combines the salty, savory flavor of halloumi with the freshness of mint and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes.Simply cook your favorite pasta according to the package directions, and when it’s done, toss it with a mixture of cherry tomatoes, fresh mint, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve it alongside your grilled halloumi cheese and watch your taste buds go on an adventure!3. Couscous SaladNot only is couscous salad delicious and easy to make, but it also pairs perfectly with halloumi cheese. To start, boil one cup of couscous in two cups of water. Once cooked, toss in tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Top it off with a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing. Serve it with grilled or fried halloumi on top or on the side. 4. Rice PilafRice pilaf is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with halloumi cheese. It is made by cooking rice in a flavorful broth and a variety of herbs, spices, and vegetables. To start, sauté some onions, garlic, and other veggies in a pan. Once soft, add the rice and cook until tender. Add a flavorful broth, herbs, and spices, and serve with fried or grilled halloumi.5. Grilled VegetablesGrilling vegetables is a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. When served alongside halloumi cheese, grilled vegetables are an irresistible combination. Try grilling eggplant, bell peppers, asparagus, mushrooms, or zucchini to serve alongside halloumi cheese until they are tender and lightly charred. Grilled vegetables provide a great contrast in texture and their smokiness pairs perfectly with grilled halloumi cheese.6. Roasted PotatoesRoasted potatoes are a delicious and easy side dish to serve with halloumi cheese. To make, cut potatoes into wedges or cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, the perfect addition to fried halloumi cheese.7. Sweet Chili MayoNothing goes better with fried halloumi cheese than a delicious dipping sauce. Sweet chili mayo is a simple dipping sauce that will take your cheese platter to the next level. To make, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice in a bowl. The mayo provides the creamy texture, the sweet chili sauce adds a bit of sweetness and a hint of heat, and the lime juice brings it all together with a bright acidity.Halloumi cheese is the salty partner you’ve been looking forHalloumi cheese is a delicious addition to any meal, thanks to its salty and savory flavor. So wait no longer, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy the deliciousness of halloumi! Are you looking for premium dairy products? If so, Baladna is your best option. We are the leading dairy company in Qatar, offering an extensive range of products including fresh milk, cheese, yoghurt, and cream. Our dairy products have become staples in many households in Qatar due to their high quality and taste. Whether you are looking for halloumi, feta cheese, or any other cheese, we are the perfect choice. Browse through our list of cheeses today!

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Blog Halloumi Cheese: Everything You Need to Know
27 January, 2023

Halloumi Cheese: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re a fan of Mediterranean food, then you’ve certainly come across halloumi cheese before. Halloumi is a classic Cypriot cheese made from goat’s milk, sheep’s milk, or a combination of the two. Sometimes, cow's milk is utilized. Because it holds its shape when cooked, it is most loved in its grilled form. This type of cheese deserves some appreciation, so we’ve gathered all there is to know about halloumi cheese below. Ready to get your dose of halloumi knowledge? What is Halloumi? Halloumi is a white, layered cheese similar to mozzarella. Traditionally made on the Eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus from goat and sheep's milk, halloumi cheese has grown in popularity across different parts of the world. As a semi-hard, unripened cheese that has been brined, halloumi cheese is known for its mild spongy texture and salty flavor. Cow's milk is sometimes used to make halloumi. Either pasteurized or unpasteurized milk is available as well. Although halloumi can be consumed raw, its high melting point makes it a perfect cheese for grilling or frying. When grilled or pan-fried, it melts on the inside and crunches on the outside, comparable to the texture of a marshmallow when roasted.Halloumi is gaining popularity. It is fairly priced and available in most stocked supermarkets and specialty shops. Baladna’s halloumi cheese is available in many grocery stores. Alternatively, you can purchase it directly from Baladna’s website.How is Halloumi Made? Halloumi is made when rennet or vegetarian rennet is added to hot milk to get it to thicken. The whey is then removed from the curds once they have formed. The curds are then chopped, firmed up, and pressed into molds. Halloumi's resistance to melting is provided by the additional heating step of poaching the cheese in water or whey. The cheese is then salted and can be consumed immediately after that for three to five days. If not, it can be aged for many months and preserved in brine, which gives the cheese its salty flavor. Like feta cheese, halloumi is marketed in compact bricks that are vacuum-packed in plastic and have a solid texture. Baladna’s farmers produce many kinds of cheeses that resemble halloumi. These cheeses are typically referred to as grillable or halloumi-style cheeses for legal proprietary reasons. They are also known as frying cheese, grilled cheese, or queso de freír in Spanish.It may be challenging to substitute halloumi due to its distinctive texture. Some recipes may call for tofu or Indian paneer, but they won't taste quite the same as halloumi. Hard, dry feta cheese is somewhat comparable when eaten uncooked.Uses Consider grilling, frying, or slicing Halloumi. Use it in salads or a Caprese salad in place of mozzarella. As a gluten-free alternative, use grilled halloumi slices instead of bread in sandwiches. You may also serve it with watermelon, as they do in Cyprus. Although halloumi can be consumed raw, many people prefer its taste when warmed, grilled, or heated. Once the cheese is cooked, the saltiness disappears and is replaced by a powerful, savory bite and a slightly creamy mouthfeel. StorageKeep your halloumi in the fridge for up to a year, unopened. Refrigerate in salted water for up to two weeks after opening, then tightly wrap in waxed paper, parchment paper, or cheese wrap. If you wrap your halloumi in plastic or foil, you may keep it in the freezer for up to three months.Halloumi for the win .. and grillHalloumi is a type of cheese that has been around for a long time and its popularity is only growing. It is a popular ingredient in many dishes, as it holds its shape when heated, making it ideal for grilling or frying. With a 2.6 million square meter footprint, Baladna is one of the largest cattle farms in the region and offers authentic, fresh, and high-quality dairy products. Baladna is 100% Qatari. Up to 24,000 cows can be housed on our farm in a cozy and well-kept environment, enabling them to produce as much as they can comfortably. Get your favorite Baladna cheese today! 

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Blog Is Mozzarella Cheese Healthy? We’ve Got Your Answer
13 May, 2024

Is Mozzarella Cheese Healthy? We’ve Got Your Answer

Mozzarella cheese is a type of cheese that is popular in Italian cuisine. It is made from cow's milk and is one of the most popular cheeses used in pizza, lasagna, and other Italian dishes. Many people are curious if mozzarella cheese is a healthy food choice, and the answer is that it can be! Let's learn more about this:It's a good source of proteinMozzarella is a great source of protein, providing 8 grams per one-ounce serving. This makes it a great choice for people looking to increase their protein intake. Protein plays an important role in building and maintaining muscle, and it's also essential for healthy skin, bones, and organs. Eating mozzarella can help you meet your protein needs without having to rely on other animal proteins such as beef or chicken.It's a good source of many essential minerals Mozzarella is rich in essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Calcium, crucial for strong teeth and bones, prevents decay and gum disease. Selenium in mozzarella protects cells, reduces inflammation, and supports the immune system, benefiting cognitive function. Additionally, the cheese boasts high Vitamin A content, promoting healthy eyes, skin, teeth, and gums, while aiding in new bone cell growth.It has less sodium than most other cheeses One of the most significant benefits of mozzarella cheese is that it has less sodium than most other cheeses. Sodium is an important mineral that helps regulate blood pressure, as well as fluid balance in the body. When consumed in excess, it can lead to a number of health problems, including hypertension and stroke. By choosing a low-sodium cheese like mozzarella, you can rest assured that you won’t be overloading your body with sodium.It's lower in saturated fatSaturated fats are types of fats that can raise cholesterol levels in the body and increase the risk of heart disease. However, mozzarella has a significantly lower amount of saturated fat than other cheeses. A single serving of regular mozzarella cheese (about 1.5 ounces) contains just 3.5 grams of saturated fat, compared to 7.5 grams in a serving of cheddar cheese. This makes mozzarella an excellent choice for those who need to watch their saturated fat intake.How much mozzarella should you eat in a day? If you’re looking to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your diet, mozzarella cheese is a great choice. But how much mozzarella should you eat each day?The answer really depends on your individual health needs and goals. For most healthy adults, the recommended daily intake of cheese is around 1.5 ounces. This amount provides a good balance between the health benefits of cheese and the potential risks associated with too much cheese.When it comes to mozzarella cheese specifically, 1.5 ounces is a good guideline. This amount provides around 100 calories, 7 grams of protein, and 6 grams of fat. It’s also a great source of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12.If you’re looking for a little extra flavor and nutrition, you could add a few slices of mozzarella to your salads, sandwiches, or pizzas. You could also use mozzarella cheese to make delicious homemade pizzas, calzones, and even grilled cheese sandwiches.For those who are trying to lose weight, it’s important to keep in mind that cheese can be high in calories and fat. So if you’re trying to cut back on calories, you may want to limit your portion sizes.Say mozzarella!Mozzarella cheese can be considered a healthy food option when eaten in moderation. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, and is lower in fat and sodium than many other cheese varieties. That said, it is important to remember that consuming too much of any food, even one as healthy as mozzarella, can lead to weight gain and other health issues. It's also vital that you get your mozzarella cheese from a trusted dairy and beverage company like Baladna.Baladna cheese, including mozzarella, is fresh and high quality. Baladna is among the biggest cattle farms with about 24000 cows that are kept in a well-conditioned environment to ensure only the best dairy products. Try Baladna mozzarella cheese and other products today!

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Blog Superfood Spotlight: The Health Benefits of Eating Yoghurt
14 May, 2024

Superfood Spotlight: The Health Benefits of Eating Yoghurt

Everyone knows food is essential for our health. Without nutritious food, we would not be able to maintain our health and energy levels needed for daily function. For this reason, we are all encouraged to eat healthy food and, as much as possible, avoid unhealthy options such as processed and fast food. Many foods are rich in nutrients, and yoghurt is no exception.Yoghurt is a product made from milk that has been fermented with lactic acid bacteria. This process gives yoghurt its unique flavor and creamy texture. Additionally, the fermentation process helps increase the nutritional content of yoghurt. It is considered a healthier alternative to other sweet treats, particularly ice cream, and is packed with essential nutrients to keep the body running. However, many people do not know that eating yoghurt as part of a diet goes a long way, so we will discuss some of the benefits below:The health benefits of yoghurtYoghurt is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamins. It is full of essential amino acids and protein building blocks. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to increase their protein intake. Yoghurt is also high in calcium - which is great for healthy bones and teeth. Many yoghurts are fortified with additional vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D and B12, which are essential for various bodily functions.Yoghurt also contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help improve digestion. Probiotics can help improve the balance of good bacteria in the gut and are believed to help reduce the risk of certain illnesses, such as inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, yoghurt can help boost the immune system, as it contains beneficial bacteria and other compounds that can help fight off infections.Is there a right time for eating yoghurt?The great thing about yoghurt is that it can be eaten at any time. However, there are certain times that experts recommend consuming yoghurt, such as:Breakfast: Yoghurt is an excellent breakfast choice as it is a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics. It can be eaten on its own or topped with fruit and nuts for added flavor and nutrition.As a dessert after your meal: Yoghurt is a great way to satisfy a sweet tooth without all the calories and fat of regular desserts. Even if you're not a yoghurt fan, you can mix it with fruit, honey, and nuts to create a delicious and healthy after-meal treat.As a snack: Yoghurt makes for a great snack in between meals. It is an excellent source of protein and calcium and can help keep you full until your next meal.When traveling: Yoghurt is a great snack to take with you when traveling. It is lightweight and easy to store and can help prevent hunger pangs when you're on the go.Choosing the right yoghurtNot all yoghurts are created equal, and when it comes to choosing the right yoghurt for your diet, there are a few things to consider. To help you with this, here are some helpful tips:1. Know your yoghurt preferencesFirst, consider your preferences. Do you like plain or flavored yoghurt? Do you prefer Greek or Icelandic yoghurt? Do you want a low-fat or full-fat variant? Your choices matter when picking the right yoghurt, so choose wisely.2. Choose unsweetened or unflavored yoghurtYoghurt is a healthy snack, so choose unsweetened and unflavored varieties. Avoid yoghurts that contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners because these can be unhealthy and add unnecessary calories.3. Choose a yoghurt with just the right amount of proteinProteins are essential for muscle growth and repair and help keep you feeling full. Look for yoghurts that contain at least 10 to 15 grams of protein per serving to satisfy your appetite and provide you with essential nutrients.4. Look for live culturesLook for yoghurts that contain live cultures, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium. These cultures help break down lactose, a sugar variant found in dairy products. They also help keep your digestive system healthy.Fuel your body with the creamy goodness of yoghurt Yoghurt is an excellent choice for those leading a healthy lifestyle, so incorporating it into your diet is recommended. Many yoghurt variants are available, so it is only a matter of finding the one that best suits your taste. If you are looking for high quality yoghurt, Baladna has what you need! We offer various selections in different flavors as well as other dairy products, such as cheese, milk, and juices, for affordable prices. 

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