Blog Everything You Need to Know About Akawi Cheese
14 May, 2024

Everything You Need to Know About Akawi Cheese

Similar

Akawi is a type of cheese most commonly associated with Middle Eastern cuisine. It is a white cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk and has a salty, tangy flavor. 


Akawi cheese is an essential ingredient in many Middle Eastern dishes and is a favorite among many cultures. It is commonly used in Middle Eastern dishes such as manakeesh, sambusek, and kunafa. It can also be used to top salads, sandwiches, and pizzas. It is also a great addition to sauces and dips. Akawi cheese is also a great ingredient when used in baking, as it adds a salty, creamy flavor to bread and pastries.


Akawi cheese is made from unpasteurized sheep’s or goat’s milk that is pressed and salted. The cheese is then aged for two to three months, forming its unique tangy flavor. Akawi cheese is light yellow in color. It has a distinctive soft texture and salty taste. The cheese is usually sold in blocks or rounds. 


The health benefits of akawi


Akawi cheese is a healthy and nutritious food rich in protein and calcium. It is also a good source of vitamins A, B2, and B12, as well as minerals such as zinc and iron. Eating Akawi cheese can also help reduce cholesterol levels as it is low in saturated fat. Akawi cheese also contains probiotics, which can help improve digestion and boost the immune system.


Akawi cheese is an excellent choice for those looking to add delicious and healthy food to their diet. With its unique flavor and nutritional benefits, it is sure to be a hit in any meal.


Tips for using akawi cheese in cooking


Akawi cheese can be used in various dishes, from salads and sandwiches to pizzas and pastas. When using Akawi cheese in cooking, it is best to grate it before adding it to a dish. This will help to ensure that the cheese melts quickly and evenly.


Try adding herbs and spices such as oregano, thyme, and garlic to give a dish an extra boost in flavor. For a creamy, flavorful dip, try combining Akawi cheese with Greek yogurt and spices.


A salty and tangy addition to your cheese collection! 


Akawi is a traditional and popular type of cheese used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It is made from soft, brined sheep's or goat's milk and is characterized by its salty and tangy taste and soft texture. The cheese is often eaten as a snack and is also used in a variety of traditional dishes. Akawi is an important part of the culinary heritage of Middle Eastern countries, and its unique flavor and texture make it an excellent addition to a variety of dishes.


Baladna is the best dairy and beverage company in Qatar. Shop our dairy products now and experience the difference.

More Articles

Blog How Long Can Yoghurt Be Stored After Opening The Packaging?
14 May, 2024

How Long Can Yoghurt Be Stored After Opening The Packaging?

Yoghurt is a nutritious and delicious dairy product that can be eaten on its own or used as an ingredient in various recipes. It is also known for its probiotic properties, which help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. However, once you open a container of yoghurt, it is important to consume it within a certain timeframe. Here, we will explore various factors that may affect your yoghurt’s shelf life. Factors that affect yoghurt shelf life1. TemperatureYoghurt should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below. If yoghurt is exposed to temperatures above this range, it can spoil faster.2. ContaminationOnce you open a container of yoghurt, it will be exposed to air and bacteria. This can increase the risk of contamination and spoilage.3. HandlingThe way you handle yoghurt can also affect its shelf life. If you use a dirty spoon or your hands to scoop out yoghurt, you can introduce bacteria that can cause spoilage.How long can you keep yoghurt after opening it?Generally, yoghurt can be kept for 7-10 days after opening - if stored properly. However, the actual shelf life of yoghurt can vary depending on several factors. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as a sour smell, mold, or a change in texture, it is best to discard it.How to extend yoghurt shelf life1. Store it in the coldest part of the fridgeThe key to extending the shelf life of yoghurt is to keep it in a cool place. The back of the fridge is typically the coldest part, so store your yoghurt there. Avoid placing it near the door or on the top shelf, as these areas are often warmer and can cause your yoghurt to spoil more quickly.2. Use a clean spoon or spatulaWhen you're ready to enjoy your yoghurt, always scoop it out with a clean spoon or spatula. This will prevent bacteria from getting into the container and spoiling the rest of the yoghurt. Avoid using a dirty utensil, as this can introduce unwanted bacteria into the yoghurt.3. Don't leave the container openIt's important to avoid leaving the yoghurt container open for an extended period. This can cause the yoghurt to dry out and lose its flavor. Always seal the container tightly after you've finished using it, and return it to the fridge as soon as possible.4. Don't freeze yoghurtWhile it may be tempting to freeze your yoghurt to extend its shelf life, this is not recommended. Freezing can change the texture and flavor of the yoghurt, making it less enjoyable to eat. Instead, focus on using up the yoghurt before it expires.5. Don't leave it out at room temperatureYoghurt should always be stored in the fridge and shouldn’t be kept at room temperature for more than two hours. This can cause bacteria to grow, which can lead to food poisoning. If you're taking yoghurt on the go, keep it in a cooler or insulated bag to keep it cool.6. Consider buying smaller containers of yoghurtIf you find that you're often throwing away half-eaten containers of yoghurt, consider buying smaller containers. This will help reduce waste and ensure you're always eating fresh yoghurt. You can also buy larger containers and portion them into smaller ones to extend their shelf life.Don’t mishandle your yoghurt! It’s important to keep in mind that proper storage, handling, and temperature control can help extend yoghurt's shelf life. If you notice any signs of spoilage, it is best to discard the yoghurt to avoid the risk of foodborne illness. Looking for a trusted dairy and beverage company in Qatar? Turn to none other than Baladna. With one of the largest cattle farms in the region, Baladna offers authentic, fresh, and quality dairy products. These include fresh milk, yoghurt, cheese, labneh, and many more. Contact us today for more information.

Read More
Blog 5 Easy Ways to Incorporate Dairy Into Your Healthy Eating Habits
13 September, 2024

5 Easy Ways to Incorporate Dairy Into Your Healthy Eating Habits

Dairy is an integral part of a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins A and D. Unfortunately, many people think of dairy as unhealthy and try their best to avoid it. But with a few simple changes to your diet, you can incorporate dairy into a healthy eating plan. Here are several ways you can add dairy to your diet: 1. Eat yoghurt for breakfast Yoghurt is the perfect choice for a nutritious and delicious breakfast. This snack is packed with protein, calcium, and probiotics to help keep your gut healthy. Not to mention, yoghurt is quick and easy to prepare. All you need is a few simple ingredients to start your day right!You can top your yoghurt with fresh fruit, nuts or granola can for added flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, you can add some honey or agave nectar. 2. Use cottage cheese in saladsCottage cheese is a low-fat, high-protein dairy product that is known for its versatility. You can mix it with anything to create a healthy salad. Not only is cottage cheese low in fat and high in protein, but it is also creamy and mild, which can easily be incorporated into salads, dips, and more.You can mix cottage cheese in salads with other veggies, fruits, and nuts to create a nutritious, delicious salad. For a heartier salad, mix cottage cheese with roasted vegetables, quinoa, and nuts for a delicious, protein-packed meal. 3. Add milk to your smoothiesMilk is an excellent source of anything and everything that your body needs to be healthy. Adding milk to your smoothies, for example, is an easy way to increase your daily dairy intake and ensure you get all the essential nutrients you need to stay healthy.Be mindful of the kind of milk you use. Whole milk is usually the best choice as it contains more fat and calories than skim milk, making it more filling and satisfying. However, if you’re trying to cut back on calories or fat, you can opt for skim or low-fat milk instead.4. Make a dairy-based soupDairy-based soups are easy to make and are versatile in their ingredients. Not only are they a great source of protein, but they also provide essential vitamins and minerals. Whether you choose a creamy soup like potato leek soup or a broth-based dish like chicken noodle soup, you can be sure that you are getting plenty of essential nutrients from dairy-based ingredients.When it comes to ingredients, the possibilities for making a dairy-based soup are endless. Take your pick from milk, cream, yoghurt, cheese, and butter, just to name a few. Each of these adds a unique flavor to the soup and a wealth of nutrients.5. Treat cheese as a healthy snackCheese can be a great, healthy snack that is loved by many people. Besides being rich in protein and calcium, it provides essential minerals and vitamins like zinc, phosphorus, and vitamin A. In addition, eating cheese in moderation can help you meet your dietary needs while providing a delicious snack.The best part is that cheese can be used in various dishes like salads and sandwiches. It can be served on its own as part of a cheese platter or added to a variety of dishes, such as salads and sandwiches, or even as the main ingredient in a savory casserole.Get your daily dose of dairy with Baladna Incorporating dairy into healthy eating habits is an easy and delicious way to improve overall health. Dairy products are a great source of many essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and B vitamins. Eating dairy, along with a proper diet, can help your body maintain strong bones and teeth, as well as help keep your skin healthy. Baladna takes pride in being a trusted dairy and beverage company in Qatar. From cheddar cheese to fresh milk, we have everything you need to satisfy your dairy needs. Contact us for more information about our dairy products. 

Read More
Blog All You Need to Know About Feta: Ways to Eat & Store It
16 January, 2023

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

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 FoodFeta 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 FetaWhen 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!

Read More
Blog Does Dairy Cause Inflammation? Here's An Overview
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!

Read More