27 January, 2023

Halloumi Cheese: Everything You Need to Know

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If you’re a fan of Mediterranean food, then you’ve certainly come across halloumi cheese before. Halloumi is a classic Cypriot cheese made from goat’s milk, sheep’s milk, or a combination of the two. Sometimes, cow's milk is utilized. Because it holds its shape when cooked, it is most loved in its grilled form.

This type of cheese deserves some appreciation, so we’ve gathered all there is to know about halloumi cheese below.

Ready to get your dose of halloumi knowledge?

What is Halloumi?

Halloumi is a white, layered cheese similar to mozzarella. Traditionally made on the Eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus from goat and sheep's milk, halloumi cheese has grown in popularity across different parts of the world. As a semi-hard, unripened cheese that has been brined, halloumi cheese is known for its mild spongy texture and salty flavor.

Cow's milk is sometimes used to make halloumi. Either pasteurized or unpasteurized milk is available as well. Although halloumi can be consumed raw, its high melting point makes it a perfect cheese for grilling or frying. When grilled or pan-fried, it melts on the inside and crunches on the outside, comparable to the texture of a marshmallow when roasted.

Halloumi is gaining popularity. It is fairly priced and available in most stocked supermarkets and specialty shops. Baladna’s halloumi cheese is available in many grocery stores. Alternatively, you can purchase it directly from Baladna’s website.

How is Halloumi Made?

Halloumi is made when rennet or vegetarian rennet is added to hot milk to get it to thicken. The whey is then removed from the curds once they have formed. The curds are then chopped, firmed up, and pressed into molds. Halloumi's resistance to melting is provided by the additional heating step of poaching the cheese in water or whey.

The cheese is then salted and can be consumed immediately after that for three to five days. If not, it can be aged for many months and preserved in brine, which gives the cheese its salty flavor. Like feta cheese, halloumi is marketed in compact bricks that are vacuum-packed in plastic and have a solid texture. Baladna’s farmers produce many kinds of cheeses that resemble halloumi.

These cheeses are typically referred to as grillable or halloumi-style cheeses for legal proprietary reasons. They are also known as frying cheese, grilled cheese, or queso de freír in Spanish.

It may be challenging to substitute halloumi due to its distinctive texture. Some recipes may call for tofu or Indian paneer, but they won't taste quite the same as halloumi. Hard, dry feta cheese is somewhat comparable when eaten uncooked.

Uses

Consider grilling, frying, or slicing Halloumi. Use it in salads or a Caprese salad in place of mozzarella. As a gluten-free alternative, use grilled halloumi slices instead of bread in sandwiches. You may also serve it with watermelon, as they do in Cyprus.

Although halloumi can be consumed raw, many people prefer its taste when warmed, grilled, or heated. Once the cheese is cooked, the saltiness disappears and is replaced by a powerful, savory bite and a slightly creamy mouthfeel.

Storage

Keep your halloumi in the fridge for up to a year, unopened. Refrigerate in salted water for up to two weeks after opening, then tightly wrap in waxed paper, parchment paper, or cheese wrap. If you wrap your halloumi in plastic or foil, you may keep it in the freezer for up to three months.

Halloumi for the win .. and grill

Halloumi is a type of cheese that has been around for a long time and its popularity is only growing. It is a popular ingredient in many dishes, as it holds its shape when heated, making it ideal for grilling or frying.

With a 2.6 million square meter footprint, Baladna is one of the largest cattle farms in the region and offers authentic, fresh, and high-quality dairy products. Baladna is 100% Qatari. Up to 24,000 cows can be housed on our farm in a cozy and well-kept environment, enabling them to produce as much as they can comfortably. Get your favorite Baladna cheese today!

24 June, 2025

All About Nabulsi Cheese: The Perfect Salad Addition

When most people think of Nabulsi cheese, they might imagine it melting into a decadent Middle Eastern dessert or paired with olives for breakfast. However, Nabulsi cheese is far more versatile than you might think. With its firm texture, salty flavor, and satisfying bite, Nabulsi makes the perfect addition to fresh salads, adding a delightful Middle Eastern twist to your greens.But first, what makes Nabulsi cheese unique?Originating from the city of Nablus in Palestine, Nabulsi cheese is a semi-hard white cheese, often flavored with mahlab (a cherry seed spice) and nigella seeds. Traditionally, it’s soaked in brine to preserve it, giving it a distinct salty flavor that pairs beautifully with both savory and fresh ingredients. The cheese can be eaten fresh or fried for a crispy outer layer and gooey inside, similar to halloumi.What makes it so great for salads? Texture: Nabulsi cheese has a firmer texture, which holds up well in salads without crumbling. This makes it ideal for tossing with vegetables, grains, and even fruits.Salty, Tangy Flavor: The cheese’s saltiness adds a burst of flavor to otherwise mild ingredients, creating a balanced contrast in your salad.Versatility: Whether grilled, fried, or used fresh, Nabulsi cheese complements a wide range of ingredients, from leafy greens to grains, fruits, and nuts.A few creative salad ideas with Nabulsi cheese1. Nabulsi Cheese & Watermelon SaladPair the salty Nabulsi with juicy watermelon cubes for a refreshing summer salad. Add a sprinkle of mint leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, and a dash of lemon juice for a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.2. Grilled Nabulsi Cheese Salad with Roasted VegetablesLightly grill slices of Nabulsi cheese until golden brown and add to roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. Toss with a vinaigrette made from lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of sumac for a Middle Eastern-inspired salad.3. Nabulsi Cheese & Arugula SaladUse the cheese as a salty counterpart to peppery arugula. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onions, and finish with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.4. Nabulsi Cheese & Quinoa SaladFor a heartier salad, combine Nabulsi cheese with cooked quinoa, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon for a protein-packed meal that’s both healthy and delicious.If you’re looking to bring a new flavor to your salads, Nabulsi cheese is a great way to introduce a taste of the Middle East into your meals. For the finest Nabulsi cheese, Baladna has you covered. Visit our website to explore our range of products, and find Baladna cheeses in supermarkets across Qatar today!

13 May, 2024

Different Ways Cow's Milk Can Help Boost Your Immune System

The human body is designed to build a strong immune system and many different factors come into play to help make that happen. One such factor is nutrition. Your meal plan and the products you consume daily can help make or break your immunity. Did you know that cow’s milk can help build stronger immune systems? Cow milk contains a range of nutrients - including proteins and vitamins - that are essential for the development and function of the immune system. So, what are the benefits of drinking cow milk?1. It's a complete mealCow milk has many nutrients that the body needs, such as vitamins A and D, protein, zinc and selenium, making it a complete meal on its own. All of these nutrients are critical for maintaining a strong immune system.2. It's a good source of protein Protein is an essential nutrient for the immune system. It helps build and maintain the body's tissues and organs, including the immune system cells. Cow milk is a good source of protein, with each cup containing about 8 grams of protein. 3. It's a good source of Vitamin AVitamin A is important for the development and function of the immune system. It helps maintain the skin's health, which is the body's first line of defense against infection. Cow milk is a good source of vitamin A; each serving of milk contains about 15% of the daily recommended intake.4. It's good for your bonesOne of the benefits of cow milk is that it is good for your bones. Cow milk contains high levels of calcium and other minerals essential for the formation of strong bones. 5. It helps prevent diabetesCow’s milk contains high levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a hormone that has been shown to reduce the risk of diabetes. Cow milk also contains high levels of calcium, which can help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of diabetes. However, because milk contains carbs, drinking too much milk may cause your blood sugar to spike, so it is best to get the advice of a professional nutritionist regarding your intake. 6. It is brain food Cow milk is also a great source of brain food. It contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids are known to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.7. It fights depressionDepression is a serious mental illness that can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. Cow milk contains high levels of tryptophan, an amino acid that is effective in treating depression.8. It lowers cholesterolHigh cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease. Cow milk contains high levels of saturated fat, which can help lower cholesterol. Saturated fat is known to increase the level of HDL cholesterol, which is the “good” cholesterol, and to decrease the level of LDL cholesterol, which is the “bad” cholesterol.The bottom lineAs we’ve seen above, cow's milk is an excellent source of nutrition and can help you build a strong immune system. It is packed with essential nutrients needed to keep your body healthy and fight infection. It also contains antibodies that can help protect you from disease. So, drink up and enjoy the benefits of cow's milk!Are you looking for high-quality dairy products in Qatar? Baladna provides authentic, fresh, and high-quality dairy products, including a wide range of milk products. These include skim milk, full fat milk, and a variety of flavored milk. Get yours today.

25 June, 2025

Mozzarella Cheddar Mix: Cheesy Pasta Recipes

Who can resist a deliciously cheesy pasta dish? When it comes to putting together the ultimate comfort meal, the combination of mozzarella and cheddar is a game-changer. Mozzarella adds that stretchy, melty goodness, while cheddar offers a sharp, rich flavor that balances perfectly. Whether you're whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, these cheesy pasta recipes will hit the spot. 1. Mozzarella Cheddar Eggplant RollsFor a flavorful twist on pasta dishes, try eggplant rolls stuffed with cheesy goodness. Slice eggplants lengthwise, grill them, and stuff each slice with a mix of cooked pasta, mozzarella, cheddar, and marinara sauce. Roll them up, place them in a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly. The mozzarella makes the filling creamy, while cheddar adds richness to every bite.2. Three-Cheese Mac and CheeseMac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and with Baladna’s mozzarella-cheddar combo, it gets even better. Make a creamy roux base, then stir in both mozzarella and cheddar to create a velvety, gooey sauce. Pour over cooked elbow macaroni, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden. The combination of stretchy mozzarella and tangy cheddar makes every bite irresistible.3. Cheesy Pesto PastaLooking for a quick, flavorful dish? Toss your favorite pasta with fresh basil pesto, then sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and cheddar. The mozzarella melts into the sauce, while the cheddar adds a satisfying sharpness, balancing the fresh flavors of the pesto.4. Mozzarella Cheddar Stuffed ShellsFor a show-stopping dish, stuffed shells are a great option. Fill large pasta shells with a creamy ricotta mixture and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar. Top with marinara sauce, more cheese, and bake until the shells are tender and the cheese is bubbly. 5. Cheesy Potato SouffléFor a comforting dish with a cheesy twist, this potato soufflé is a must-try. Whisk mashed potatoes with mozzarella and cheddar, along with some cream to create a fluffy soufflé base. Bake until golden and puffed up. The mozzarella gives the soufflé a light, melty texture, while the cheddar adds a punch of flavor, making this dish an irresistible side or main course.A Final Cheesy NoteWhether you're making cheesy eggplant rolls, rich mac and cheese, or a delicious potato soufflé, the combination of mozzarella and cheddar adds the perfect balance of gooeyness and flavor to any pasta dish. For the finest shredded mozzarella and cheddar combo, be sure to check out our product on our website or at supermarkets near you in Qatar. Try these recipes for your next meal and enjoy the magic of this delicious cheese duo!

26 June, 2025

Perfect Feta Cheese Pairings for Every Occasion

Feta cheese, with its crumbly texture and tangy flavor, is a beloved ingredient in many cuisines around the world. Its versatility makes it suitable for a number of dishes — from salads to pastries, and even as a standalone snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a simple family meal, here are some perfect pairings for feta cheese that will surely leave you and your guests impressed: 1. Fresh SaladsFeta cheese is a natural fit for salads, adding a creamy texture and a burst of flavor. Combine it with fresh arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion, and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding kalamata olives and roasted bell peppers. The salty and tangy feta complements the crispness of the vegetables perfectly.2. Mediterranean Mezze PlatterCreate a delightful mezze platter featuring Baladna Premium Feta alongside an assortment of olives, hummus, roasted eggplant, and warm pita bread. This combination is perfect for entertaining guests, allowing them to mix and match flavors. 3. Savory PastriesFeta cheese can add depth and flavor to various baked goods. Try mixing it with spinach and herbs for a delicious filling in savory pastries like spanakopita or rakakat jebneh. The flaky pastry and creamy feta create a delightful contrast in texture that will impress your guests.4. Roasted VegetablesRoasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, and adding feta cheese enhances their flavor. Toss seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender. Crumble Baladna Premium Feta on top just before serving for a tangy finish that complements the sweetness of the vegetables.5. Pasta DishesFeta cheese can be a wonderful addition to both cold and hot pasta dishes. In a cold pasta salad, mix cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, basil, and a generous sprinkle of feta. For a warm dish, toss cooked pasta with sautéed spinach, garlic, and feta for a quick and tasty meal that is sure to satisfy.A Final Note on FetaWhether you're preparing a light salad, a hearty pasta dish, or a savory pastry, Baladna Premium Feta can elevate your meals with its rich flavor and creamy texture.