14 May, 2024

Beyond the Bowl: Creative Ways to Use Sour Cream at Home

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Sour cream is a tangy and thick dairy product that can do wonders in the kitchen. It goes well with a number of dishes – whether as a topping or as a basic ingredient. Made by adding lactic acid bacteria to cream, sour cream is great for thickening or adding flavor to any dish.

With its creamy texture and slightly tart flavor, sour cream is the missing ingredient your recipes have been searching for. Here are a few ways you can get creative with sour cream in the kitchen:

How to use sour cream in the kitchen?

1. Make a delicious dip

Mix sour cream with a bit of garlic, onion powder, and your favorite blend of herbs, and indulge in a dip like no other. Have it alongside crunchy chips, crackers, or vegetables.

2. Add creaminess to soups

If you're looking for a way to add a creamy consistency to your soups without using cream, try stirring in a spoonful of sour cream. It’ll take your recipe to a whole new level, trust us.

3. Create a creamy salad dressing

Create a flavorful and creamy salad dressing by combining sour cream, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. The sour cream gives the dressing a thick and creamy texture.

4. Make a creamy sauce

You can create a delicious sauce by combining sour cream, diced tomatoes, garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices. This creamy mix is perfect for topping pasta and tacos, adding a zesty touch to any meal.

5. Top baked potatoes

Adding sour cream to a baked potato is a delicious way to enhance its flavor. Put a spoonful of sour cream on top of your potato, and then top it with your favorite herbs or spices for some extra flavor.

6. Add fluffiness to pancakes

Adding some sour cream to your pancake batter can create a delicate and airy texture, taking your pancake game to the next level.

Other ways you can use sour cream

1. Facial mask

Using a dollop of sour cream as a mask can help hydrate and nurture your complexion. The lactic acid in the sour cream helps exfoliate and soften the skin, while the fats and proteins help nourish and replenish it.

2. Hair treatment

Combine equal parts of sour cream and coconut oil in a bowl before applying the mixture to freshly washed hair for an all-natural conditioning treatment that will leave your hair looking shiny and healthy!

3. Body scrub

Mix a combination of sour cream and sugar to create a paste. Gently rub the paste onto the skin and massage in circular motions. Rinse off the scrub with warm water. The sugar will help exfoliate and remove dead skin cells, while the sour cream will help nourish and soften the skin.

A sour & creamy ending

These are just a few creative ways to use sour cream at home. Its versatility make it a favorite among kitchen enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a savory dish or a luxurious beauty treatment, sour cream can be a great addition to your routine. So, the next time you're looking to try something new, think of sour cream! And make sure to choose the right brand because it makes all the difference.

Baladna is a trusted dairy and beverage company in Qatar. Our products are fresh, authentic, and of excellent quality. Order sour cream, and other dairy products, from Baladna today and enjoy them right away!

28 August, 2025

Baladna Back to School Song Lyrics – Unity & Inspiration

The day awakens, and together we rise,ابتدى الصبح وقعدنا .. كلنا من النوم The sun spills joy across a world prepared.واشرقت شمس السعادة وكل شي جاهز When Mila arrives, our faces bloom with smiles,من تجي ( ميلا ) ابتسمنا للحياة كل يوم،Her touch is magic, her spirit a gentle flame that carries us forward.عندنا ( ميلا ) وسحرها وهي لنا حافز Our Baladna, we all walk together,بلدنا .. لا مشينا كلنا .. On every path we take to school each day, each day. بكل طريق نسلكه للدراسة كل يوم كل يوم.. Our Baladna, we all rejoice together, بلدنا .. لا فرحنا كلنا ..In every success we achieve in our studies each day. each day.بكل نجاح نكسبه فالدراسة كل يوم كل يوم

23 June, 2025

Baladna Cheese Varieties & Recipe Inspos

Whether you’re enjoying a casual snack or crafting a show-stopping centerpiece for your dining table, Baladna Cheese is sure to delight every palate. What truly sets Baladna Cheese apart is its authentic flavor, fresh texture, and diverse variety. Don’t just take our word for it — try it yourself and taste the difference!Let’s talk about the exceptional nourishing flavorBaladna cheese isn't just about great taste; it’s also a source of essential nutrients. Packed with protein, calcium, and phosphorus, our cheeses provide a nutritious boost for those aiming to maintain a balanced diet. They are rich in high-quality protein, delivering essential amino acids that support muscle repair and promote healthy skin, hair, and nails. Additionally, calcium and phosphorus work together to fortify your bones and teeth, contributing to overall skeletal health. Having said that, it’s clear that choosing Baladna cheese means nurturing your body while indulging in delightful flavors.Introducing the Baladna Cheese CollectionWhat truly sets Baladna cheese apart is its rich variety and distinct flavors. Here’s a taste of what we offer:Halloumi: Known for its firm texture and savory, salty profile, Baladna Halloumi is perfect for grilling or pan-searing. Its signature squeaky bite and beautifully browned edges make it a great addition to salads, skewers, or even atop avocado toast.Akawi: This semi-hard white cheese boasts a mild, salty flavor and smooth consistency. Traditionally featured in Middle Eastern sweets like knafeh, Baladna Akawi goes really well with fresh watermelon or other refreshing fruits. Feta: A brined cheese with a crumbly texture and tangy, slightly salty flavor, Baladna Premium Feta adds a zesty touch to salads, sandwiches, and classic Mediterranean dishes such as spanakopita and moussaka.Nabulsi: Made from pasteurized cow's milk, Nabulsi is a brined cheese with a subtly firm texture and a hint of nuttiness. It shines in both savory and sweet applications, whether used to stuff pastries or paired with honey and nuts. What to make with each variety?Feta x Salad: Create a vibrant Greek salad by combining Baladna Premium Feta Cheese with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and fresh mint.Halloumi x Breakfast: Elevate your morning meals by grilling slices of Baladna Halloumi and adding them to your scrambled eggs or on top of nutritious avocado toast.Cheese Rolls x Appetizer: Make homemade cheese rolls using a blend of Baladna Halloumi and Akawi, perfect as appetizers for your Ramadan feasts and family gatherings.Mozzarella x Eggplants: Hollow out eggplants and fill them with a mixture of ground meat, spices, and Baladna Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden.Now it’s time to explore the countless options within our cheese range. Browse our selection and find your favorites at supermarkets near you.

04 February, 2025

Does Dairy Cause Inflammation? Here's An Overview

Dairy has been a staple in the American diet for decades. It is a significant source of calcium, vitamin D, and other critical nutrients for bone health. However, there is a potential link between dairy consumption and chronic inflammation. The latter may lead to numerous health problems like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. So, does dairy cause inflammation? Let's talk about it.The case against dairyA main argument against dairy is that it contains a protein called casein, which some people may be allergic to or intolerant to. Casein makes up about 80% of the protein in cow's milk and is also found in other dairy products like cheese and yoghurt. When exposed to casein, the body can trigger an immune response that leads to inflammation. This reaction is more common in people with dairy allergies or intolerances.Another potential cause of inflammation is the saturated fat content in dairy. Saturated fats have been connected to heart disease and other cardiovascular issues. One study suggests that a high intake of saturated fat can trigger inflammation. Dairy products like butter, cheese, and whole milk are high in saturated fat, which could be problematic.The case for dairyDespite the concerns about dairy, many health experts still recommend it as part of a healthy diet. Dairy is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. It also contains other nutrients like vitamin D, potassium, and magnesium. All of these nutrients are necessary for overall health and well-being.Furthermore, some studies suggest that dairy may have anti-inflammatory effects. For example, a study found that dairy consumption was linked to lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a good indicator of inflammation. According to another published article, consuming dairy products regularly, such as yoghurt and milk, was associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.So, what's the verdict?While some studies suggest that dairy is a potential cause of inflammation, others suggest it may have anti-inflammatory effects. It's also worth noting that not everyone reacts to dairy similarly. Some people may be more sensitive to casein or saturated fat than others.The best approach is to listen to your body. If you notice that consuming dairy products causes discomfort or inflammation, it may be worth cutting back or eliminating them from your diet. On the other hand, if you tolerate dairy well and enjoy it as part of a balanced diet, there's no need to cut it out.The quality of the dairy products you consume is also worth considering. Opt for high-quality, organic dairy products whenever possible. Organic dairy products come from cows not treated with antibiotics or hormones and not fed with pesticides and other harmful chemicals. This means their milk and dairy products are of higher quality and contain fewer toxic substances that could trigger inflammation.Final Thoughts The relationship between dairy and inflammation is not clear-cut and varies from person to person. Observe how your body reacts to dairy and make choices based on your needs and preferences. Choosing high-quality, organic dairy products can also help reduce the potential for inflammation. A balanced, nutritious diet is vital to overall health and well-being. If you have concerns about dairy and inflammation, speaking with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider is always a good idea.Baladna takes pride in being the best dairy and beverage company in Qatar. We offer a wide selection of high-quality, organic dairy products, including milk, yoghurt, laban, cheese, and more. Order Baladna products to enjoy the benefits of organic dairy!

27 October, 2024

Understanding How Long Cheese Can Stay Out of the Fridge

Cheese is a versatile and delicious ingredient that finds its way into various dishes. It is a staple in many households — from gourmet cuisine to late-night snacks. However, storing cheese properly ensures it remains fresh and tasty. One common question arises: how long can cheese stay out of the refrigerator? We’ve put together a quick guide that will help you understand the factors that affect the shelf life of cheese and how long it can be kept out of the fridge.Factors affecting the shelf life of cheese Several factors can influence how long cheese can stay out of the refrigerator. These factors include the type of cheese, the environment's temperature, and the humidity levels.1. Type of cheeseThere are hundreds of different types of cheese, and they all have other properties that affect their shelf life. For instance, hard cheeses like cheddar cheese, gouda, and parmesan can stay out of the fridge longer than soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and blue cheese. This is because hard cheeses have a lower moisture content, making them less susceptible to bacterial growth.2. TemperatureThe environment's temperature plays a crucial role in how long cheese can stay out of the refrigerator. The warmer the temperature, the quicker bacteria will grow and spoil the cheese. The perfect temperature for storing cheese is between 35°F and 45°F (1.6°C and 7.2°C). However, most cheeses can be safely left out at room temperature (around 70°F or 21°C) for a short period.3. HumidityHumidity is another factor that affects how long cheese can stay out of the fridge. High humidity levels can cause the cheese to spoil faster due to increased microbial growth. On the other hand, low humidity levels can make the cheese dry out and lose its flavor.How long can different types of cheese stay out of the fridge? Now that we know the factors that affect the shelf life of cheese, let's look at how long different types of cheese can stay out of the refrigerator.1. Hard cheesesAs mentioned earlier, hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and parmesan have a lower moisture content, making them less susceptible to bacterial growth. These cheeses can generally be left out at room temperature for up to 8 hours. However, consuming them within 4 hours is best to ensure the best flavor and quality.2. Semi-hard cheesesSemi-hard cheeses like provolone, swiss, and Monterey Jack can be left at room temperature for up to 4 hours. After this time, the risk of bacterial growth increases, and the cheese should be refrigerated.3. Soft cheesesSoft cheeses like brie, camembert, and blue cheese are more perishable and should not be kept outside of the fridge for more than 2 hours. This is because their high moisture content makes them more susceptible to bacterial growth.4. Fresh cheesesFresh cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, and cottage cheese are the most perishable and should never be left out of the fridge for more than 1 hour. These cheeses have a very high moisture content, making them a breeding ground for bacteria.Tips for storing cheese properlyTo ensure your cheese stays fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:1. Wrap the cheese in wax or parchment paper instead of plastic wrap. This allows the cheese to breathe and prevents it from becoming too damp.2. Store cheese in a designated cheese drawer or container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level.3. If you're storing multiple types of cheese, keep them separated to prevent cross-contamination and flavor transfer.4. Don't store cheese next to strongly flavored foods like onions or garlic, as it can absorb their flavors.5. When serving cheese at a party or gathering, only put out small portions at a time. This helps prevent the cheese from sitting out too long and becoming unsafe.Get your cheese todayBy understanding the factors that affect the shelf life of cheese and following the above storage tips, you can ensure that your cheese stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Whether enjoying a simple cheese platter or incorporating cheese into your favorite recipes, proper storage and handling will help you maximize your cheese experience and minimize waste. If you’re looking for some high-quality cheese, Baladna is here for you. Our range of authentic, fresh, and quality dairy products reflects our dedication to animal welfare and sustainability. To see our variety of locally-produced options, check out our products today and see our ongoing efforts to create a more sustainable and self-reliant future in food production.