16 January, 2023

All You Need to Know About Feta: Ways to Eat & Store It

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Cheese is a versatile and beloved food enjoyed in many cuisines worldwide. It can be used in various dishes, such as sandwiches or grated over pasta, or eaten alone with crackers. Still, not all cheeses are created equal, and feta cheese is a prime example!

Feta cheese hails from Greece and is a crumbly, salty cheese made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep's and goat's milk. With its unique tangy taste, it is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, where it's often paired with olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, and other vegetables.

Unlike other cheeses, feta cheese requires specific handling and storage to maintain its distinctive flavor and texture. Unfortunately, few people know how to properly store and serve feta cheese, so we're here to help.

How Feta Cheese Is Made

Feta cheese is a unique and beloved cheese that originates from Greece. It's made by combining sheep's or goat's milk with rennet and salt. The rennet enzyme helps solidify the milk, forming a curd, which is then cut into small pieces and left to drain. After that, the cheese is placed in a brine solution that preserves it and gives it its signature salty taste.

Typically, feta cheese is ready to be eaten after a few days, but some varieties are aged for several months. Aging gives the cheese a firmer texture and a more complex flavor. During this time, the cheese is stored in a brine solution and regularly turned to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Storing Feta Cheese

For maximum freshness; Feta cheese should be stored in the fridge in an airtight container, with the brine being changed every few days. If you're not going to eat it within a few days, put it in the freezer for longer-term storage, where it can last for up to 6 months. This also goes for cooked feta dishes, like pasta or salads, which will stay good for up to 5 days.

Pairing Feta with Food

Feta cheese is a versatile ingredient that can improve many recipes' flavors. It can be included in many dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Also, it goes well with veggies like onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes. Feta mixes superbly with ricotta and mozzarella, among other cheeses. Although feta's sour flavor may not be the best complement for fruit, watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew pair nicely with it. Furthermore, feta goes well with many sauces and can be added as a topping to pizza or spaghetti.

Things to Avoid When Serving Feta

When serving feta cheese, there are certain things you should never do. These include:

1. Serve Spoiled Feta

Serving rotten feta cheese is a major no-no, which should go without saying. Feta cheese needs to be kept in brine to stay fresh and prevent rotting. It will spoil and need to be thrown away if kept out of the fridge for an extended period of time. Make sure you only provide the freshest feta cheese to satisfy your guests' taste buds.

2. Cut Feta with Your Hands

It is advised to use a knife rather than your hands to cut or cube the feta cheese to reduce any potential danger of bacterial contamination. This straightforward advice will guarantee accurate portioning and assist in preserving the cheese's quality and freshness.

3. Avoid Serving Feta at the End of the Meal

Feta cheese etiquette dictates that it should not be served at the end of the meal. Feta is a strong-flavored cheese, and its taste can be overpowering if served after other dishes. Because of this, it should be served alongside other dishes or as an appetizer.

Is your feta knowledge betta now?

Feta is a delicious cheese that can be enjoyed in a variety of different ways. While typically served as an appetizer, it can also be eaten with other dishes. When eating feta, one must be mindful of feta cheese etiquette to enjoy it to the fullest.

If you’re looking for the best feta cheese, Baladna has what you need! We offer selections made with the finest quality ingredients, all for affordable prices. Visit our website today and take your pick!

10 October, 2024

Discover the Benefits of Yoghurt as a Staple in Your Diet

Yoghurt has been consumed by humans for thousands of years. It is a delicious and nutritious food that is rich in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. In recent years, yoghurt has become increasingly popular as a staple in many people’s diets, thanks to its many health benefits. If you wish to improve your overall health and well-being, then adding yoghurt to your daily diet could be an excellent step in the right direction. This article discusses the various benefits of yoghurt and why you should consider making it a regular part of your diet.Appreciating yoghurtYoghurt is a fermented dairy product made by adding live bacteria cultures to milk. The bacteria convert lactose, the natural sugar in milk, into lactic acid, which gives yoghurt its tangy flavor and thick texture. Yoghurt can be made from various types of milk, including cow, goat, sheep, and even plant-based alternatives like soy and almond milk.Yoghurt is nutrient-denseYoghurt is a nutrient-dense food, which means it contains a high amount of essential nutrients with relatively few calories. A typical eight-ounce serving of plain yoghurt provides the following:Calories: 149Fat: 8gSodium: 113mgCarbohydrates: 11.4gFiber: 0gSugars: 11.4gProtein: 8.5gPhosphorus: 233 mgCalcium: 296mgRiboflavin: 0.34mgYoghurt is also a fantastic source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that reside in our gut and promote digestive health. Probiotics can help improve bowel regularity, boost the immune system, and alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.It can help with weight managementYoghurt can be an effective food for weight management because it is high in protein and low in calories. Protein is a satiating nutrient that can help you feel full and satisfied, which can prevent overeating and snacking between meals. The calcium in yoghurt can help regulate metabolism and reduce the amount of fat absorbed by the body. Studies have shown that including yoghurt in your diet can help with weight loss and weight maintenance. In one study, overweight women who ate yoghurt as part of a reduced-calorie diet lost significantly more weight than those who didn’t consume yoghurt.It can improve bone healthCalcium, which is necessary for maintaining strong and healthy bones, is abundant in yoghurt. The main mineral that forms bones is calcium, and a lack of it can cause osteoporosis, which is characterized by brittle and frail bones.The vitamin D in yoghurt can help the body absorb calcium more efficiently. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that is naturally found in a few foods, including fatty fish, egg yolks, and mushrooms that have been exposed to sunlight. However, most people get their vitamin D from fortified foods or supplements.It is versatile and deliciousAs a versatile food, yoghurt can be consumed in a variety of ways. It may be consumed unflavored or with the addition of fruit, honey, or other natural sweeteners. It can also serve as the foundation for sauces, dressings, dips, and smoothies.Greek yoghurt, which is strained to remove the whey, is thicker and creamier than regular yoghurt and contains more protein. It can be used in recipes that require a thicker consistency, such as cheesecake, muffins, and pancakes.It is a convenient and portable snackYoghurt is a convenient and portable snack that can be enjoyed on the go. It can be packed in a lunchbox or kept in the office fridge for a quick and easy snack. Yoghurt cups and drinkable yoghurt bottles are also available in most grocery stores and vending machines.Embrace the goodness with Baladna yoghurt Whether you prefer Greek, plain, or flavored yoghurt, ensuring that it is a regular part of your diet can help you reap the many benefits it has to offer. So, why not add a serving of yoghurt to your daily eating routine and enjoy the many benefits yoghurt has to offer?Get your daily yoghurt serving with Baladna! We ensure consumers’ wellness by providing natural, nutritious, and tasty foods and beverages while maintaining the most rigorous food safety and biosecurity protocols. Get your delicious yoghurt now!

10 September, 2026

How To Keep Your Favorite Chocolate Milk From Going Bad

Regardless of where you are, everyone loves a tall glass of cold chocolate milk on a hot summer day. For some, this refreshing drink may remind them of their nostalgic childhood. But have you ever smelled or tasted a whiff of sour chocolate milk and felt disappointed about it? While feeling upset about your spoiled chocolate milk is understandable, you must know why it happens and how to prevent it from going rancid. This article will explain the lifespan of chocolate milk and what you can do to extend its shelf life. How long will chocolate milk last after the sale date?While expired chocolate milk can last for about a week, it loses its nutritional value when the sugar converts into lactic acid. You can drink chocolate milk about a week after the sell-by date if you refrigerate it below 40°F.Having said that, drinking spoiled milk can cause foul odors and food poisoning, so you should avoid it at all times. You can detect bad chocolate milk by its sour taste, off-color, and thick or clumpy texture. Why does chocolate milk spoil faster?People create this chocolaty beverage by combining milk and chocolate. If the chocolate used in making the milk has gone rancid, it can cause the drink to spoil quicker. You should never use expired milk to create other dairy products like cheese, sour cream, or yoghurt because it will have a rotten smell and taste and will not be safe to consume.How long will it take for chocolate milk to spoil?While this beverage will spoil in two to four hours if you store it above 40°F, it can last five days to a week if you keep it properly in the fridge. You must refrigerate fresh milk immediately to prevent harmful bacteria growth and absorption of odors or flavors from the environment. Also, opened milk products spoil faster, so you should use them quickly to avoid cost and food waste.How long can you let chocolate milk sit out?While chocolate milk can last longer at room temperature than regular milk, health professionals and food experts recommend refrigerating it to prevent spoilage. Never leave dairy products or other refrigerated foods outside the fridge for more than two hours.How long is chocolate milk good after opening? You must refrigerate your chocolate beverage and consume it within a week to ten days after opening. It will spoil if it goes unrefrigerated for more than two hours, and bacterial growth is faster between 40°F and 140°F. Also, check the appearance, texture, aroma, and taste before consuming. If it smells terrible, it most likely needs to be tossed out. How to keep chocolate milk from spoiling?Storing chocolate milk in the fridge prevents it from going rancid. Refrigeration slows down fermentation and prevents bacterial growth. If you keep it properly, you can still safely consume the drink after two weeks. The stabilizers in chocolate milk, like carrageenan and guar gum, make it less likely to spoil. Is chocolate milk nutritious? Chocolate milk has many beneficial nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein. However, children under 12 shouldn't drink it because of its caffeine content. Nobody deserves bad milk Nobody deserves to drink spoiled chocolate milk because it can ruin one’s day and cause stomach problems. You can prevent it from spoiling by buying from reputable brands and storing and refrigerating it properly. If you are looking for the best chocolate milk for a hot day, visit Baladna! We provide people in Qatar with authentic and fresh dairy products. Shop your favorite products today by visiting our website.

26 August, 2026

Mila’s Healthy Snack Checklist

Planning school snacks can be simple and fun. Mila’s checklist helps families put together tasty choices with fruit, dairy, grains and fun add-ons, making it easier to keep lunchboxes varied through the week.

11 September, 2026

Say Cheese: How To Keep Your Cheese At Its Best

Picture this: you walk into your local cheese counter, eyes filled with wonder at the diversity. Excitedly, you bring your treasures home, only to forget about them in the depths of your fridge for weeks. When you finally remember your cheese, you're greeted with fuzzy mold patches. We know what a disappointment that can be and that’s why we’ve put together this article, revealing the secrets behind cheese preservation. Ready to dive into the fascinating world of cheese and uncover the best ways to keep it fresh and delicious? Cracking the cheese code: Understanding cheese typesAre you familiar with the cheese classification types? There are two key factors to consider: moisture content and the ripening process. The level of moisture in cheese influences its overall consistency and mouthfeel. Cheese can be soft, semi-hard, or hard, depending on its moisture levels. Soft cheeses like Feta, Brie and Gorgonzola are characterized by their creamy, spreadable texture, due to their high moisture content. Then you have Gouda, Provolone, and Muenster which fall under the semi-hard category. These cheeses are more balanced and versatile. Lastly, Aged Cheddar and Parmesan proudly claim their place among the hard cheeses. These types of cheeses have a very low moisture content. In addition to moisture levels, the ripening process also plays a role, with unripened, mold-ripened, and bacteria-ripened cheeses taking center stage. Unripened cheeses, also called fresh cheeses, skip the aging process and offer a delicate and creamy texture and flavor. Mold-ripened cheeses - such as Brie and Camembert - undergo a process where the mold culture transforms the texture and taste. Bacteria-ripened cheeses - such as Muenster - boast complex and robust flavors. Unveiling the mystery of cheese spoilageCheese has a life of its own, and understanding its timeline is crucial. First, let's decode the difference between a "best if used by/before" date and an "expiration" date. The USDA sets the record straight: the former indicates peak flavor, not safety. So don't despair if you spot your cheese past its "best by" date. Spoilage, however, is a different story altogether. When cheese goes bad, it's either way overripened and flavorless, or it can make you ill. But here's a cheesy secret: mold isn't always a villain. Hard and semi-hard cheeses like Cheddar, Gouda, and Parmesan can be rescued by cutting off at least an inch around and below the moldy spot. Remember, mold doesn't penetrate these resilient cheeses. Moldy soft cheeses, though? Beware! New mold on soft cheeses is a no-no. Say goodbye to black and pink patches — they're a sign that something has gone very wrong. Stick to the white mold on your soft cheeses and avoid any unexpected surprises.The art of cheesy longevity: How long does cheese last?Now let's talk about cheese lifespan. Soft cheeses, including washed-rind and bloomy-rind varieties, last about seven to ten days, depending on their ripeness when you bring them home. Firmer cheeses, such as aged Parmesan and Gouda, can survive for months, showcasing their impressive endurance. However, cheeses like Havarti and Cheddar typically last a few weeks. Keep an eye on blue cheeses—they can last up to two weeks, but beware as the "bluing" process continues. Remember, these are general guidelines. Each cheese has its quirks, so treat them with the respect they deserve.The magic of cheese scraps Instead of tossing leftover cheese or ignoring its existence in your fridge, make use of it in the kitchen! Use leftover cheese in mac and cheese or risotto for an extra dose of richness. And for those toast aficionados, smear-ripened cheeses on hot bread with a dollop of jam. It's a heavenly combination you will enjoy. It’s a wrap! Cheese, with all its delectable variations, deserves our utmost care. By understanding cheese types, recognizing spoilage signs, and mastering storage techniques, we can extend the life of our cheeses and prevent unnecessary waste. While preserving cheese is essential, savoring it is the ultimate goal. So go forth, enjoy your cheese, and let the magic unfold! If you're a cheese lover who values authenticity, freshness, and quality, then you should definitely try Baladna cheese! As a 100% Qatari brand, Baladna takes pride in providing dairy products that are not only delicious but also ethically produced. With one of the largest cattle farms in the region, spanning over an area of 2.6 million sqm and a capacity to house up to 24,000 cows, Baladna ensures that its cows are kept in a comfortable and well-conditioned environment, allowing them to reach their production capacity comfortably. So, if you want to experience the taste of fresh and authentic dairy products, try Baladna today!