14 May, 2024

Food Watch: How Long Can I Leave My Block of Cheese Out?

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Cheese is a favorite among many, but not everyone cares for their cheese as much as they should.

Everybody knows that leaving out uneaten food is terrible because it can lead to food contamination, mold growth, and it can attract pests. The same can be said about leaving certain foods unrefrigerated and that includes cheese. But worry not, we’re going to dive deep into storing tips and tricks regarding your favorite cheese.

What is cheese?

People make cheese by taking milk and introducing bacteria to it to create an acidic environment. This environment separates the milk into a solid curd and a liquid whey. They’ll cook, cut, and press the curd together to produce more whey. Next, they’ll add salt and other flavorings and let the dairy product age for several weeks or even longer to create cheese.

How long have people been making cheese?

People have been crafting cheese for thousands of years without mechanical refrigeration. Aging is a crucial part of the process, where they store blocks of cheese at moderate temperatures and leave them to mature for long periods. This step is critical in developing the best-tasting cheese and can take weeks, months, or even years.

Can cheese go bad?

The good news is that pasteurized cheese won’t likely cause stomach problems, even if you leave it out for a few days. People have pasteurized the milk used to make the cheese, which means they heated it to kill potentially harmful bacteria. However, if you leave it out for an extended time, the dairy product can spoil, and the bacteria will change its color, texture, flavor, and aroma.

You must also be more careful with unpasteurized cheeses like Brie, Camembert, Feta, and other fresh cheeses as foodborne illnesses are more present. Such cheeses can be contaminated with different bacteria such as E. coli, salmonella, and listeria.

Why can’t it go bad?

The oldest and most common food preservation technique removes the water and oxygen bacteria needed to survive. It works best for cheese because it squeezes most of the water.

Unfortunately, like most things, cheese can experience mold growth because of spores. Luckily, you can cut off the moldy parts, and the rest of the dairy product is safe to eat. While keeping certain cheeses at room temperature will not cause food poisoning, its quality will suffer because of the drying out and fat separation.

Hard vs. Soft Cheese

When it comes to storing, the type of cheese is the most important consideration. Hard cheeses will last longer and are less likely to cause health issues. However, soft cheeses - such as Brie, cream cheese, ricotta and others - must be handled more carefully. These cheeses, as well as unripened cheeses - such as halloum and akawi - should remain refrigerated at all times. They can be kept out for two hours tops.

How long can you let cheese sit out?

Depending on its type, cheese can stay out of the refrigerator for two hours tops if you store it in a cool place. You should store fresh, unripened cheeses in the fridge, while aged dairy products can stay out for up to a day. Moreover, anything you can’t eat within a day belongs in the refrigerator.

Keeping it safe and cheesy

Cheese remains a popular dairy product because of its versatility and flavor. You can enjoy this food better by storing it properly and knowing how to use it for different foods.

At Baladna, we strive to bring Qatar the freshest and most authentic products to help people enjoy their meal times better. Browse through our products today!

13 May, 2024

5 Nutritional Benefits of Sour Cream

Sour cream is a versatile and popular dairy product known for its slightly tangy, creamy texture and flavor. A staple in numerous dishes, including dips, sauces, soups, and salads, sour cream isn't just delicious—it also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Here’s a look at some of them: 1. Good source of healthy fatsSour cream is a dairy product made by adding lactic acid bacteria to the cream. It is high in fat but is a source of healthy fats. It has been used in recipes for centuries and has a tangy, creamy consistency.Sour cream is also rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered to be the healthiest types of fats as they help reduce unhealthy cholesterol levels, lower the risk of heart disease, and promote healthy blood sugar levels.2. Good source of proteinAdding sour cream to your diet can help increase your daily protein intake. A single tablespoon contains almost 1 gram of protein, which is 2% of the daily recommended value.In addition to its protein content, sour cream is an excellent source of other nutrients. It contains large amounts of calcium and phosphorus, essential for bone health, and vitamins A and E.3. Can help you absorb more nutrientsSour cream contains lactic acid bacteria that can help break down proteins and fats in food, making it easier for the body to absorb vitamins and minerals. It can also help improve digestion, further aiding in nutrient absorption.Not only can sour cream help you absorb more nutrients, but it can also act as a source of those nutrients. Sour cream is high in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin A, essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. If you're looking for a way to get more of these essential nutrients, adding a dollop of sour cream to your meals can be a great way to do so.4. Can help you lose weightSour cream can help you lose weight by providing a healthy source of protein which can reduce cravings and keep your metabolism running at a high level.It is excellent weight loss food as it is rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, potassium, and vitamin A, which are important for health and weight loss.5. Can help lower your cholesterolWhen it comes to heart health, one of the most important nutritional considerations is cholesterol. High cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Fortunately, several foods can help lower cholesterol, and one of them is sour cream.Sour cream is a good source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are the "good" fats that can help reduce harmful cholesterol levels. The lactic acid bacteria used to make sour cream can also help lower cholesterol levels by increasing the production of HDL (high-density lipoprotein), the "good" cholesterol.

29 October, 2024

The Incredible Soft Cheese: Understanding Labneh

In recent years, the culinary world has seen a surge in the popularity of Middle Eastern cuisine, with dishes like hummus, falafel, and shawarma becoming mainstays in many foodie circles. However, there is one Middle Eastern delight that remains a best-kept secret to many: labneh. This versatile, creamy, and tangy yoghurt-based delight is a staple in many Middle Eastern households and is slowly leaving its mark on taste buds around the globe. Today, we will delve into the world of labneh, talking about what it is, how it's made, and how you can enjoy it in various recipes. For starters, what is labneh? Labneh, also known as labna, labni, or lebni, is a soft cheese made from strained yoghurt. It is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly in Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, and Syria. Labneh has a thick and creamy texture, similar to Greek yoghurt or sour cream, but with a slightly tangier taste. It is often used as a spread, dip, or topping and can be found in both savory and sweet dishes.How is labneh made?Labneh is made by straining yoghurt to remove the whey, which results in a thicker and creamier consistency. The process is quite simple and can easily be done at home. Here's a basic recipe for making your own labneh:Ingredients:4 cups of plain yoghurt (preferably full-fat)1 teaspoon of saltInstructions:Mix the yoghurt and salt together in a bowl.Line a sieve or colander with a cheesecloth or a clean, thin kitchen towel, and place it over a large bowl.Pour the yoghurt mixture into the lined sieve and cover with the cloth's edges.Place the bowl in the refrigerator and let the yoghurt strain for at least 24 hours or until it reaches your desired consistency. The longer it strains, the thicker and creamier the labneh will be.Once the labneh is ready, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The labneh will last for up to two weeks.How to enjoy labnehLabneh is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some ideas for incorporating this delicious Middle Eastern secret into your culinary repertoire:1. As a dipMix labneh with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (such as mint or parsley), olive oil, and a pinch of salt for a delicious and healthy dip. Serve with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or crackers.2. As a spreadSpread labneh on toast, bagels, or sandwiches as a tangy alternative to cream cheese. 3. In saladsMix a bit of labneh with lemon juice, olive oil, and spices to create a creamy salad dressing.4. In bakingUse labneh as a substitute for sour cream or yoghurt in recipes for cakes, muffins, pancakes, or other baked goods.5. As a dessertSweeten labneh with honey or sugar and serve it with fresh fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of honey for a light and delicious dessert.6. As a toppingFinally, use labneh as a topping for grilled or roasted vegetables, meat, or fish dishes for added creaminess and flavor.Enjoy labneh today!Labneh is undoubtedly one of the Middle East's best-kept secrets, offering a unique combination of tangy flavor and creamy texture that can elevate any dish. Whether you're looking to expand your culinary horizons or simply searching for a tasty and versatile ingredient to add to your creations, give labneh a try and discover the delightful world of Middle Eastern cuisine.Baladna delivers genuine, fresh, and top-notch dairy products courtesy of our farm, which is home to 24,000 cows. The excellent environment of the farm ensures the production of superior quality dairy products. If you are looking for the best labneh, check out our offerings by visiting our website.

10 February, 2023

What Are The Benefits Of Drinking Chilled Juice?

When it comes to healthy eating, most people know that they should be incorporating fruits into their daily meal plans. However, what we don't realize is that drinking fruit juice, preferably Baladna chilled juice, is just as good for you as it provides a host of health benefits. Whether you realize it or not, the foods you eat have a direct impact on your health. If you regularly eat processed foods and foods that are high in sugar, your body will be a bit sluggish and you will get tired easily. On the other hand, if you eat a diet that is rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, your body will be stronger and you’ll be more active and alert. One of the best ways to ensure that you're getting plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet is to drink 100% natural Baladna juice on a regular basis. This will give your immune system the boost it needs to fight off infection and disease. Why drink fruit juice?What are the benefits you may expect when you drink chilled juice regularly? Let’s discuss them below. Fruit juice is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals. The vitamins and minerals in fruit juice can help boost your immune system, improve your skin health, and increase your energy levels. Moreover, fruit juice is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your body from disease. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful toxins that can damage cells and lead to illness. Fruit juice is good for people who are trying to cut down on their intake of processed sugars. Baladna chilled juice is a great option as it’s a natural source of sugar. Sugar from fruit juice is absorbed more slowly by the body than other types of sugar, so it does not cause spikes in blood sugar levels that can occur after eating foods high in refined sugar. Fruit juice can help you detoxify your body. We're all exposed to toxins on a daily basis — from the food we eat to the air we breathe, and even the products we use on our skin. Over time, these toxins can build up in our bodies and can lead to health problems such as fatigue, headaches, and even weight gain. One of the best ways to get rid of these toxins is by drinking chilled juice regularly. This gives your body a chance to rest and heal while also flushing out all of the built-up toxins. Fruit juice is a great way to get your daily recommended intake of fruits and vegetables. Many people struggle to eat the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables each day, but drinking fruit juice makes it easy to reach your goals. At Baladna, we have 200 ml and 1.5L bottles of chilled juice in these exciting flavors: mango alphonso, kiwi & lime nectar, lemon & ginger nectar, lemon & mint nectar, green apple nectar, peach nectar, pomegranate, fruit mix, orange, pineapple, tropical mix, apple, mixed berries, and guava blend. When should you NOT drink fruit juice? If you have diabetes, it is best to avoid drinking fruit juice. Diabetes is a serious condition that requires careful management. It is a chronic disease that affects millions of people around the world. Though it can be managed with diet and lifestyle changes, if your blood sugar is not maintained at the right level, diabetes can lead to serious complications like heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness. While sugary drinks, like fruit juice, may seem harmless for the average person, they can actually be extremely dangerous for diabetics. One of the main problems with fruit juice is that it's full of sugar. And for diabetics, too much sugar can be extremely dangerous. Even 100% fruit juices are not ideal as the fructose content of such beverages is still high. A quick note on fruit juice and bloating While regularly drinking chilled juice is good for you, note that going overboard can cause some unwanted side effects. This is usually because some fruit juices are made from concentrated sources of fruit, which means they contain more fructose than if you were to eat the whole fruit. And as we all know, too much fructose can cause digestive issues like bloating. Another reason why fruit juice might cause bloating is that it doesn't contain natural fiber. Unlike whole fruits, which are a good source of dietary fiber, some sweetened fruit juices lack this important nutrient. And as we all know, fiber helps keep your digestive system healthy and can help reduce bloating. The good news is that Baladna’s fruit juices are 100% fresh and natural. They have no sugar additives, so you can be sure that every drink is packed with the right nutrients. Baladna’s chilled juices come in multiple flavors including orange, apple, pineapple, fruit mix, tropical mix, and pomegranate mix. As you can see, there are plenty of good reasons to incorporate fruit juice into your diet! Not only is it an easy way to increase your intake of essential vitamins and minerals, but it can also boost your immune system. So, the next time you're looking for a healthy beverage option, reach for a Baladna chilled juice. Your body will definitely thank you for it! Interested to know more about Baladna products? Visit our website or engage with us on Instagram!

25 June, 2025

Baladna Cheese Varieties: A World of Flavor

Baladna cheese is a delightful and versatile option that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a wide range of foods. Crafted from 100% fresh, local milk, our cheese range boasts a rich flavor and smooth, creamy texture, making it an ideal choice for picnics, formal dinners, or any occasion. Here are some of the most popular varieties of Baladna cheese:1. Feta: A Tangy DelightBaladna Feta Cheese is a salty, crumbly cheese that takes the spotlight in salads, sandwiches, and dips. You can create various dishes using Baladna Premium Feta Cheese, such as feta salad, feta grilled cheese sandwiches, feta spinach dip, feta pasta salad, feta quiche, and stuffed mushrooms. For a Greek-inspired treat, consider making spanakopita by mixing spinach, feta, fresh parsley, dill, onions, garlic, eggs, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then layering the filling in flaky puff pastry before baking.2. Halloumi: The Perfect Salad PartnerKnown for its squeaky texture, Baladna Halloumi is fantastic for grilling and pairs beautifully with salads and pizzas. Try making meat-free skewers using cubes of halloumi, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Simply grill the kebabs until the halloumi is golden brown and the vegetables are tender. A classic halloumi salad can be made with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs, all drizzled with a light vinaigrette.3. Mozzarella: A Universal FavoriteMild and milky, Baladna Shredded Mozzarella is perfect for pizzas, pasta, and sandwiches. This cheese is known for adding a creamy flavor to pasta dishes like lasagna, spaghetti, and macaroni and cheese. For a gooey treat, use mozzarella in grilled cheese sandwiches, club sandwiches, and paninis.4. Akawi: A Salty, Gooey IndulgenceWith its salty flavor and stretchy texture, Baladna Akawi Cheese is ideal for dough-based dishes like cheese manakeesh and rakakat jebneh. It’s also the key ingredient for achieving the perfect kunafa. 5. Nabulsi: A Creamy TreatBaladna Nabulsi Cheese offers a creamy texture and a mild tang, perfect for breakfast platters or unique salads. Its slightly salty flavor pairs well with fresh veggies, olives, and bread, or can be crumbled over roasted vegetables and grains. Elevate your dishes with Baladna cheese by your side No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Baladna cheese adds a touch of exceptional flavor to any dish. As a proud Qatari-owned and operated farm, we are dedicated to providing our customers with the finest dairy products. Our expansive farm spans over 2.6 million square meters and houses 24,000 cows, all raised in comfortable and well-maintained conditions to ensure optimal production. Visit our website today to learn more about our offerings!