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!

14 May, 2024

Why It’s Important to Get Your Daily Dose of Low-Fat Dairy

Dating back centuries, dairy products have always had a special place in people's diets. They're packed with vital nutrients and are a convenient option for those who lead a fast-paced lifestyle. More recently, there has been a shift towards low-fat dairy products, mainly due to their lower calorie content and lower levels of saturated fats. Though the switch to low-fat dairy may seem insignificant to you, it can positively influence your overall health and well-being. How?Low-fat dairy can improve bone densityHaving strong bones is the ultimate goal of every person out there, and it all comes down to something called bone density. The denser your bones, the stronger they are. And the stronger they are, the less likely you'll suffer from breaks and fractures. What's great about low-fat dairy products is that they are packed with nutrients that can help boost bone density such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin D. Calcium helps keep bones healthy and prevents bone loss as we get older. Phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin D are all essential for bone health because they help our bodies absorb calcium. And low-fat dairy products are packed with all these bone-friendly compounds. That's not all. Low-fat dairy products are also high in protein, which can also help build strong muscles - which we all know translates to strong bones. Low-fat dairy can help you maintain a good blood pressureLeading a healthy lifestyle and eating nutrient-packed foods are important for keeping our blood pressure in check and low-fat dairy products can help. Low-fat dairy products are a good source of calcium, magnesium, and potassium - all of which help regulate our blood pressure. Calcium can help relax our blood vessels, magnesium can help relax the arterial walls, and potassium can help reduce sodium in our bodies, which is a major factor in high blood pressure.Low-fat dairy products are also high in protein, which can also help keep our blood pressure at recommended levels. Studies have shown that a diet high in protein and low in carbs can help reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure. Last but not least, low-fat dairy products are packed with probiotics, which are good bacteria that help maintain good gut health and reduce inflammation which, in turn, reduces our risk of high blood pressure.Low-fat dairy can help you feel fuller for longerNot only are low-fat dairy products easy to consume, but they are a great addition to a healthy diet. Studies have found that low-fat dairy products are better at reducing hunger and promoting fullness when compared to high-fat dairy products. This is mainly due to the high protein content found in such products. Protein has the power to help you feel full for a longer period of time because it takes longer to digest than other types of food. So, adding more low-fat dairy products to your diet can be a great way to reduce your overall hunger and cravings.Lower fat, better health And that’s a wrap! Now that you’ve read about the benefits of low-fat dairy, it’s time to start writing down some items to buy during your next grocery shopping spree. It’s also important that you buy your dairy products from a trusted source. Baladna is a trusted dairy and beverage company in Qatar that provides authentic, fresh, and top-quality products. Our farm has the capacity to house up to 24,000 cows in a comfortable and well-conditioned environment, allowing them to reach their production capacity comfortably. Browse through our website and order your favorite low-fat dairy products now.

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!

26 August, 2025

Easy After-School Routine

Afternoons can be smoother with a little structure. Mila helps kids wind down with a simple routine of snack time, quiet moments, light play, and helping with dinner

24 June, 2025

All About Nabulsi Cheese: The Perfect Salad Addition

When most people think of Nabulsi cheese, they might imagine it melting into a decadent Middle Eastern dessert or paired with olives for breakfast. However, Nabulsi cheese is far more versatile than you might think. With its firm texture, salty flavor, and satisfying bite, Nabulsi makes the perfect addition to fresh salads, adding a delightful Middle Eastern twist to your greens.But first, what makes Nabulsi cheese unique?Originating from the city of Nablus in Palestine, Nabulsi cheese is a semi-hard white cheese, often flavored with mahlab (a cherry seed spice) and nigella seeds. Traditionally, it’s soaked in brine to preserve it, giving it a distinct salty flavor that pairs beautifully with both savory and fresh ingredients. The cheese can be eaten fresh or fried for a crispy outer layer and gooey inside, similar to halloumi.What makes it so great for salads? Texture: Nabulsi cheese has a firmer texture, which holds up well in salads without crumbling. This makes it ideal for tossing with vegetables, grains, and even fruits.Salty, Tangy Flavor: The cheese’s saltiness adds a burst of flavor to otherwise mild ingredients, creating a balanced contrast in your salad.Versatility: Whether grilled, fried, or used fresh, Nabulsi cheese complements a wide range of ingredients, from leafy greens to grains, fruits, and nuts.A few creative salad ideas with Nabulsi cheese1. Nabulsi Cheese & Watermelon SaladPair the salty Nabulsi with juicy watermelon cubes for a refreshing summer salad. Add a sprinkle of mint leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and a dash of lemon juice for a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.2. Grilled Nabulsi Cheese Salad with Roasted VegetablesLightly grill slices of Nabulsi cheese until golden brown and add to roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Toss with a vinaigrette made from lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of sumac for a Middle Eastern-inspired salad.3. Nabulsi Cheese & Arugula SaladUse the cheese as a salty counterpart to peppery arugula. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onions, and finish with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.4. Nabulsi Cheese & Quinoa SaladFor a heartier salad, combine Nabulsi cheese with cooked quinoa, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon for a protein-packed meal that’s both healthy and delicious.If you’re looking to bring a new flavor to your salads, Nabulsi cheese is a great way to introduce a taste of the Middle East into your meals. For the finest Nabulsi cheese, Baladna has you covered. Visit our website to explore our range of products, and find Baladna cheeses in supermarkets across Qatar today!