Discover the Difference Between Buttermilk and Ayran

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Have you ever wondered what's the difference between buttermilk and ayran? Taking into consideration that both use milk as the main ingredient, it can often become confusing to tell these two beverages apart.

Continue reading to discover the difference between buttermilk and ayran – from their origins to the different ways they’re used.

History of buttermilk

Buttermilk is a dairy product that has been around for centuries in many cultures. Its name likely comes from the butter-making process; it was essentially the milk that was produced after butter was made. It has since become associated with the fermented dairy drink made from cow's milk, although other types of milk can also be used to make buttermilk.

It has long been enjoyed for its tangy flavor, creamy texture, and nutritional benefits. It is used in recipes such as pancakes, waffles, and more. In some regions, buttermilk is also consumed as a refreshing beverage mixed with sugar and salt. In parts of India and Pakistan, it is also known for its digestive health benefits and is cooled down with spices like cumin, fennel, and cardamom.

History of ayran

Ayran is a popular Middle Eastern beverage that consists of yoghurt, water, and either salt or sugar. This refreshing drink is served cold and has become a staple in many countries across Southeast Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East. It also contains beneficial probiotic cultures, which can promote digestive health.

It is an excellent source of hydration and nutrition, making it an ideal way to stay refreshed during hot summer days. Also, it can be served with meals or as a snack. It has long been a popular addition to dishes such as kebabs, dolma (stuffed grape leaves), and pilaf (rice cooked with broth).

Now, let's compare buttermilk and ayran

In terms of taste and texture:

Buttermilk has a slightly tart, tangy, and sour flavor with a creamy texture. It also has a mild sweetness to it that makes it popular among many people who are fans of sour flavors. On the other hand, ayran has a salty taste and a thin texture that can be mildly tart or sweet, depending on the recipe used. It can also come in different flavors, such as mint or rosewater.

In terms of nutritional value:

Buttermilk is relatively low in calories and fat content, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals seeking a healthy beverage. It is also rich in probiotics, providing beneficial bacteria that support the digestive system, while ayran is rich in calcium, which helps build strong bones and teeth. Additionally, buttermilk contains small amounts of vitamins A and E, which are essential for supporting healthy vision and skin health. Ayran also provides additional protein compared to buttermilk, making it an excellent choice for muscle growth and repair when consumed regularly.

In terms of how they are served:

Both buttermilk and ayran can be served as a beverage. Buttermilk is usually served cold, while ayran is best when served chilled or at room temperature. Both drinks also pair well with meals and can be enjoyed in various dishes as an ingredient or condiment. However, ayran has become popular recently due to its essential electrolytes and high protein content, making it an excellent choice for active individuals seeking a replenishing snack after workouts or other physical activities.

Different, yet similar:

Both buttermilk and ayran are refreshing, low-fat beverages that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a meal. While they have some similarities, they also have some key differences in terms of taste, texture, nutritional value, and use. Whether you prefer buttermilk or ayran, or want to try both, these two beverages are definitely worth exploring for their unique flavors and benefits.

Baladna is a dairy and beverage company that serves various products, including ayran. Our high-quality products are produced under hygienic conditions and are free from preservatives and additives. We provide an easy way for customers to enjoy both drinks whenever they want. Order now!

14 October, 2024

6 Cheese Facts More People Should Know About

Cheese is a delicious and versatile food that has been enjoyed by people worldwide for centuries. Cheese is made from the milk of various animals, including cows, goats, and sheep. The first step in making cheese is pasteurizing the milk, which involves heating it to a specific temperature to kill harmful bacteria. Once the milk has been pasteurized, it is cooled and mixed with rennet, an enzyme that causes it to coagulate and form curds, eventually turning into the cheese we eat. However, few people know much about cheese, so we will discuss some facts you should know below: #1 - Cheese should be eaten sparinglyYou don't need to eliminate cheese from your diet completely. However, suppose you suffer from high cholesterol or high blood pressure. In that case, it's best to consume high-fat cheeses in moderation because certain roquefort, halloumi, feta, and cheese singles can be saltier than seawater. Cheese does, however, provide calcium and protein, making it acceptable in moderate amounts. To avoid temptation, maintain smaller servings of cheese and measure their weight. Opt for cheeses with a lower fat content like mozzarella, feta, cottage cheese, or those labeled as reduced-fat, as they contain lower amounts of saturated fat.#2 - Cheese can be addictiveStudies indicate that casein, a protein in dairy products and particularly abundant in cheese, produces opiates known as casomorphins during digestion. These opiates can indirectly provide a sense of comfort to the brain through hormones. If you consume a large amount of cheese, you might become used to its salty taste or develop a routine of eating it at specific times. Therefore, paying attention to your eating habits and slowly decreasing your cheese consumption is essential.#3 - Goat cheese is better than cow cheese Soft goat cheese has around 26g of fat per 100g, comparable to brie and edam, and roughly the same salt content as camembert. It is classified as a high-fat item, while cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, and feta, typically made from sheep's milk or a blend of sheep's and goat's milk, have lower fat content.Goat cheese is often considered a better option for those with lactose intolerance compared to soft cow's milk cheeses. While it has a similar lactose content to semi-soft cheeses like brie or feta, it contains less lactose than moister cheeses such as ricotta and cottage cheese.#4 - Cheese can help keep the bones strongCheese is an excellent source of calcium. For example, a 30g serving of cheddar supplies more than 25% of an adult's daily needs. Nonetheless, other dairy products like yoghurt and milk are equally beneficial for bone health and contain less fat and salt. Cheese also has a minor quantity of vitamin D, a fat-soluble nutrient that aids calcium absorption from our diet. Dairy products with less fat, like semi-skimmed milk, have lower amounts of vitamin D than full-fat cheese.#5 - Reduced-fat cheese is a valid optionRemember that "reduced fat" does not automatically mean "low fat.” It simply indicates that the fat content is 25% lower than in the original version. To determine if the fat content is high (over 17.5g/100g), medium (3.1-17.5g/100g), or low (3g or less/100g), be sure to check the product's label.Additionally, you can cook and bake using low-fat cheese, but remember that it might take longer for low-fat hard cheese varieties to melt. To help with melting, grate the cheese finely and use low heat. When baking or grilling, these cheeses might create skin, so adding them closer to the end of the cooking time is better.#6 - Grated cheese is better than sliced Many people use a smaller amount of cheese when grating it. A typical pre-sliced cheese weighs around 20-30 grams, and several slices are often used in a sandwich. However, you must be mindful of the portion size when grating cheese for use in sauces, toasted sandwiches, or baked potatoes, as it's pretty simple to use an excessive amount unintentionally.Say Cheese! Cheese is a delicious and beloved food enjoyed by people worldwide. However, it's essential to consume it in moderation and be aware of its nutritional value because it can be high in calories, fat, and sodium.If you are looking for high-quality dairy products, Baladna has what you need! We offer various healthy products, such as cheeses, yoghurt, milk, and fruit juices, all at affordable prices. Call us today at +974 4035 8888 to place an order!

13 May, 2024

Unlocking Radiance: 8 Health and Beauty Benefits of Dairy

We all know that dairy products are jam-packed with essential nutrients that are crucial for our overall health. But did you know that they can also work wonders for your looks? Your diet can significantly impact your appearance, and dairy can play a big role in boosting your natural beauty.Dairy products offer a ton of benefits to our overall well-being, including improving our skin and hair health, and providing us with the vital nutrients we need to look and feel our best.If you're curious about how dairy products can support your overall health and beauty, you're in the right place. Keep reading to discover the exciting benefits that dairy has to offer!1. Calcium glow-up for your skinDairy products are rich in calcium and vitamin A, which are vital for healthy skin. Vitamin A can help protect your skin from damage, while calcium keeps your skin cells healthy and reduces the appearance of dark spots.2. Hair majesty with dairy goodnessThe protein and biotin in dairy products help strengthen hair and prevent breakage, while the fatty acids help add shine and moisture to your hair.3. Dairy is your secret energy elixirDairy products are a good source of energy-boosting nutrients like B vitamins and magnesium. These nutrients can help improve your energy levels and help you feel good.4. Trimming down with dairy The protein in dairy products can promote feelings of fullness, allowing you to eat less throughout the day. The calcium in dairy can also help boost your metabolism and aid in burning more calories.5. Gut wellness unleashed The probiotics in dairy products can help keep your gut healthy and can improve your overall digestion. The calcium in dairy products can also help promote regularity and can help reduce the risk of constipation.6. Heart guardian: Dairy to the rescueStudies have shown that dairy intake is associated with a lower risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attacks, making it an excellent option for protecting your heart.7. Bone and teeth fortification with dairy powerDairy products are an excellent source of calcium and Vitamin D, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.8. Keeping your blood pressure in checkAnother fantastic way that dairy products can positively impact your health is by maintaining healthy blood pressure. This is due to the fact that dairy products are an excellent source of potassium, a crucial nutrient that helps regulate fluid levels and prevent cramping. When your body has an adequate amount of potassium, it helps to maintain healthy blood pressure levels, which is essential for reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.One cup of milk contains around 380 mg of potassium, while an ounce of cheddar cheese contains about 172 mg of potassium.A natural beauty booster, anyone? Dairy products are a fantastic addition to your diet if you're looking to improve your health and beauty. They offer a broad range of benefits that can help enhance different aspects of your overall well-being, including your skin, hair, heart, and gut health, energy levels, and bone and teeth strength.When it comes to premium milk and dairy products, look no further than Baladna. From fresh milk to yoghurt, cheese, and more, Baladna offers a wide range of exceptional dairy products to suit all your dietary needs and preferences.

23 September, 2024

5 Different Types of Cheese That You Need to Know About

The world of cheese is a delightful one filled with so many different kinds! Each type has its own flavor, texture, and uses. There is a whole world of cheese to explore and we’ve put together a list of five awesome types you just have to try. Are you ready for some cheesy goodness?1. Cheddar CheeseFrom grilled cheese sandwiches to macaroni and cheese, cheddar cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in a variety of dishes. Cheddar cheese has a sharp, tangy flavor that is perfect for those who like a little bit of a bite in their cheese.Cheddar cheese is made from cow's milk and is one of the most popular cheeses in the world. Cheddar cheese is named after the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England, where it was first made. Cheddar cheese is a hard cheese and has a natural yellowish color. Cheddar cheese is usually aged for two to five years; the longer it is aged, the sharper its flavor.2. Swiss CheeseWhen it comes to cheese, there are so many different types to choose from. But, one cheese that always stands out is Swiss cheese. Swiss cheese is a mild, white cheese that is often used in quesadillas, paninis, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Swiss cheese has a nutty flavor that pairs well with other ingredients.If you're looking for a cheese that will give your dish a little extra flavor, then Swiss cheese is a great option. So, the next time you're at the grocery store, be sure to pick up some Swiss cheese!3. Mozzarella CheeseMozzarella cheese is a soft and milky-white delight that brings extra goey goodness to your pizzas and lasagnas. Mozzarella cheese has a mild flavor that makes it a versatile cheese for many different dishes. You could also opt for fresh mozzarella to create an out-of-this-world Caprese salad bursting with flavors. 4. Parmesan CheeseParmesan cheese is a hard, yellow cheese that is often used in spaghetti and other Italian dishes. Parmesan cheese has a strong, salty flavor that can really enhance the flavor of a dish. If you're looking to add a little extra flavor to your next Italian meal, consider using Parmesan cheese. This cheese can really elevate the flavor of your dish, and it's easy to find at most grocery stores.5. Feta CheeseFeta cheese is a soft, white cheese that has a strong, salty flavor. It is a Greek cheese that is made from sheep’s milk. It is often used in Greek salads and on pizzas. It is also a great addition to your savory pastries.It’s cheesy goodness everywhere With the knowledge of these five types of cheese, you are sure to find the perfect cheese for any recipe or occasion. Feel free to refer back to this article if you need a quick refresher on the different types of cheese out there. If you’re looking for high-quality cheese, we here at Baladna have got you covered. To ensure consumers’ wellness, we provide natural and nutritious foods and beverages, while maintaining the most rigorous food safety and biosecurity protocols. For more information on our products, visit our website today!

14 May, 2024

Goat vs. Cow Milk Cheese: What Are the Main Differences?

Cheese coming from cow's milk or goat's milk may seem like distant cousins at first glance, but they are actually quite different! Do you know what these differences are? Fortunately for you, we’ve pointed out some of them below. Are you ready for some cheesy knowledge?Goat Cheese: What is it?Any cheese made solely from goat's milk is known as goat cheese or chèvre in French. Goat milk has a low casein content, which results in tiny, breakable curds. Goat cheese can turn chalky, brittle, or earthy as it matures. Goat cheese is typically creamy, spreadable, and tart when young. Because it contains a lot of vitamin A, goat cheese appears slightly brighter. This type of cheese is also packed with vitamins E, K, B6, and B3 (niacin). The taste of goat cheese is quite unique because of the presence of medium-chain fatty acids like caprylic and capric acid.There are three critical differences between cheese made with goat’s milk and that made with cow's milk. We’ve listed them below: Nutrition: Goat milk has a slight edge over bovine dairy regarding fat and nutrients but is lower in lactose, vitamin D, and riboflavin. Cow's milk has more giant lipid molecules than goat's milk, which makes it harder to process and gives it a heavier texture. Lactose-sensitive people might be able to consume goat's milk cheese because it has smaller fat molecules and less lactose than cow's milk cheese.Flavor: Cow's milk is preferred for cheese production because of its mild, neutral flavor and more cohesive protein structure. Compared to cow's milk cheese, goat cheese tends to be smoother and tangier.Accessibility: Cow's milk cheese is much more widely accessible. While goat's milk is usually produced locally in small batches, cow's milk is less expensive and more widely available.Popular slices of cheese made from cow's milkFrom cow's milk, a variety of well-known cheeses are produced, including: Fresh Cow CheesesThe best cheeses are those that can be spread and are produced from fresh cows. Many new pieces of cheese are usually made with cow's milk, such as quark in Austria, cream cheese in the United Kingdom, mascarpone in Italy, queso fresco in Mexico, cottage cheese in the United States, and fromage blanc in France. Soft and Semi-Soft Cow CheesesCow cheeses that are soft or semi-soft have a creamy texture and maintain their form. French cheese like Brie, Camembert, and Port Salut are a few of these. American cheeses Wisconsin Brick and Monterey Jack are also included.Blue Cheeses Blue growing lines on cheese make it easy to identify. The British delicacies Gorgonzola and Stilton (from Italy) are the most well-known blue cheeses made from cow’s milk.Hard and Semi-Hard Cow CheesesThe finest aged hard or semi-hard cow cheeses have a firm texture, making them perfect for slicing and grating. Emmental from Switzerland, Gruyère from France, Swiss and Colby from the United States, Cheddar from the United Kingdom, Gouda and Edam from the Netherlands, and Parmesan and Provolone from Italy are some of the hard bovine cheeses available today (Italy).High-Fat CheesesThe rind of high-fat cheeses contains a soft, cream-like material. Double cream (over 60% fat content) and triple cream (over 72%) are high-fat cheeses resembling Brie but are much heavier. These include cheeses like Brillat-Savarin, Explorateur, Gratte-Paille, and others from the French Fin-de-Siècle period.Common Goat's Milk CheesesThe chèvre - a soft, spreadable raw cheese - comes to mind when we think of goat's milk cheese. However, almost any type of cheese can be made with goat's milk, including:- Crottin de Chavignol is a type of hard goat cheese (France)- Goat cheeses that melt quickly, such as Chabichou, Cabécou, and Banon (France)- French blue goat cheeses include Humboldt Fog and Valençay