13 May, 2024

Your Guide to Serving and Eating Mozzarella the Right Way

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Mozzarella cheese is one of the most popular types of cheese and is a staple in several dishes. Whether you're craving pizza, lasagna, cheese platters, or sandwiches, you can never go wrong with its cheesy goodness. It is also an excellent source of protein and calcium.

However, like other foods, it is essential to learn the proper way to serve and eat mozzarella to enjoy it in the best way possible. And we’re here to guide you through it.

First things first: What Is mozzarella?

Mozzarella is a type of cheese made from cow's milk. It is a specialty product originating from Southern Italy. While it's typically white in color, it can vary from light yellow to creamy white, depending on the cow's diet. This type of cheese is usually available in round balls, ranging between 100 and 250 grams in size, braided or bite-sized shapes.

Tips for serving and eating mozzarella

If you want to serve and eat mozzarella cheese the right way, it is essential to follow mozzarella etiquette. Below are some tips you should take into consideration when storing, serving, and eating mozzarella.

Storing mozzarella

Place mozzarella in the fridge, and not in the freezer. Instead of wrapping it in plastic, store it in a bowl or container with whey or a solution made of cow’s milk and water. Cooked mozzarella can last three to five days in the fridge or one or two months in the freezer. It is best to consume it within one or two days after opening it.

Cleaning mozzarella

You don't need to wash mozzarella before consuming it because it is packaged in an edible liquid.

Cooking mozzarella

The best part about mozzarella is that it can be consumed in different ways. You can bake, fry, grill, or even add it raw to pasta dishes. You can also use mozzarella in your salads and sandwiches.

Serving mozzarella

It is best to serve mozzarella at room temperature. When arranging a cheeseboard, place mozzarella as the mildest option on the platter. To ensure you are serving the best mozzarella, make sure you go for fresh, moist, and firm pieces. Ensure every 125 grams contains around 330 calories for a healthy serving.

Pairing mozzarella

Mozzarella goes well with salads and pizzas. You can also pair it with bread or focaccia and season with salt, olive oil, oregano, and black pepper.

You can never go wrong with a crowd favorite!

Mozzarella is a crowd favorite because it goes well with many mouthwatering dishes. Educating yourself on how to serve and eat it properly can help you enjoy this cheesy experience better.

If you're looking for the most trusted dairy and beverage company in Qatar, you've come to the right place. Baladna strives to bring authentic, fresh, and best dairy products nationwide. Visit our website and browse our products today!

17 November, 2024

Is It Safe to Consume Cheese If You Have Heart Disease?

As one of the most beloved and versatile dairy products, cheese has been a staple in many people's diets for centuries. However, for those with heart diseases, the question of whether cheese is safe to consume remains a concern. This article will explore the relationship between cheese and heart disease and provide insights into whether cheese should be included in a heart-healthy diet.Understanding heart diseaseThe term heart disease may refer to various conditions that affect the heart, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, and valve disease. These conditions can lead to complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and even death. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, responsible for one in four deaths each year.The role of diet in heart diseaseDiet plays a crucial role in the development and management of heart disease. Unhealthy eating habits, such as consuming too many saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars, can increase the risk of heart disease. On the other hand, a heart-healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall heart health.Cheese and heart disease: What the experts sayCheese is a rich source of calcium, protein, and vitamins, making it a popular food choice for many. However, cheese is also high in saturated fat, which has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends that people limit their intake of saturated fat to less than 6% of total daily calories to reduce the risk of heart disease.A study published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases found that consuming high amounts of cheese was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The study followed 36,000 participants over ten years and found that those who consumed the most cheese had a 14% higher risk of developing heart disease than those who consumed the least.However, not all studies have found a link between cheese consumption and heart disease. A meta-analysis of 29 studies published in the European Journal of Epidemiology found that cheese consumption was not associated with an increased risk of heart disease or stroke. The researchers noted that some types of cheese, such as hard cheese, may even have a protective effect against heart disease.Moderation is keyWhen it comes to cheese and heart disease, moderation is key. While some studies have found a link between high cheese consumption and an increased risk of heart disease, other studies have found no association or even a protective effect. The type of cheese, serving size, and overall diet are all factors that can impact the relationship between cheese and heart disease.As mentioned before, you may need to limit your intake of saturated fat to less than 6% of total daily calories. This can be achieved by choosing lower-fat cheese options, such as reduced-fat or fat-free cheese, and by consuming cheese in moderation. The recommended serving size for cheese is one ounce, which is about the size of a pair of dice.Incorporating cheese into a heart-healthy dietIncorporating cheese into a heart-healthy diet is possible for those with heart disease or those looking to reduce their risk. Choosing lower-fat cheese options, such as reduced-fat or fat-free cheese, can help reduce saturated fat intake. Pairing cheese with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also help balance the overall nutrient profile of a meal.Some types of cheese may even provide health benefits. For example, cheese made from grass-fed cows may contain higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. Cheese made from goat or sheep milk may also be a good alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or sensitive to cow's milk.Buying high-quality cheese While cheese can be a delicious and nutritious addition to a well-balanced diet, those with heart disease or at risk of heart disease should consume cheese in moderation. Choosing lower-fat cheese options and pairing cheese with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce saturated fat intake and provide a more balanced nutrient profile. By incorporating cheese into a heart-healthy diet, individuals can continue enjoying this beloved dairy product while promoting overall heart health.If you are looking for the best cheese for your diet, look no further than our healthy selections here at Baladna. We are 100% Qatari, and we have one of the largest cattle farms in the region, providing authentic, fresh and quality dairy products. Browse through our website for more!

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!

24 June, 2025

Akawi Cheese: Authentic Middle Eastern Breakfast Ideas

Few ingredients in Middle Eastern cuisine reflect the region’s rich traditions as well as akawi cheese. This soft, unripened cheese, known for its mild flavor and slightly salty taste, has been a breakfast favorite in the Levant for centuries.Whether you’ve had it before or are trying it for the first time, adding akawi cheese to your breakfast is a delicious way to enjoy a taste of the Middle East. Here’s how to enjoy akawi cheese for the perfect start to your day:1. Classic Akawi Cheese & Za’atar ManakeeshOne of the most iconic Middle Eastern breakfast dishes is Manakeesh, a type of flatbread topped with a variety of ingredients. When it comes to akawi cheese, the combination with za’atar - a mix of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac - is simply unbeatable.How to Prepare:Start with a thinly rolled dough base, similar to pizza dough.Spread a generous layer of akawi cheese across the dough.Sprinkle a mix of za’atar and olive oil on top.Bake in a preheated oven until the cheese melts and the dough turns golden and crispy.2. Akawi Cheese-Stuffed Ka’ak BreadKa’ak is a traditional Middle Eastern bread often enjoyed during breakfast. Known for its sesame-coated crust, Ka’ak becomes even more delightful when stuffed with akawi cheese.How to Prepare:Begin with a Ka’ak dough, which is slightly sweet and enriched with sesame seeds.Flatten the dough and place a slice of akawi cheese in the center.Fold the dough over the cheese, sealing the edges tightly.Bake until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.3. Homemade Kunafa with Akawi CheeseFor a sweet treat, Akawi cheese is the perfect filling for Kunafa, a popular Middle Eastern dessert made with shredded phyllo dough and soaked in syrup.How to Prepare:Start by layering shredded phyllo dough or Kunafa dough in a greased baking pan.Melt butter and drizzle it evenly over the dough. Spread a generous layer of akawi cheese over the dough, ensuring an even filling.Top with another layer of shredded phyllo dough, drizzling more melted butter on top.Bake in a preheated oven until the top turns golden and crispy.Once baked, pour warm sugar syrup (flavored with rosewater or orange blossom) over the Kunafa and let it soak in.4. Shakshuka with Akawi CheeseShakshuka, a popular Middle Eastern dish made of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, can be elevated with the addition of akawi cheese.How to Prepare:Start by cooking your Shakshuka sauce — tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and paprika.Once the sauce is simmering, add slices of akawi cheese around the pan.Crack the eggs into the sauce and cook until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.Serve directly from the pan with fresh pita or crusty bread.The addition of akawi cheese adds a creamy, slightly salty contrast to the robust flavors of the tomato sauce, making this dish a hearty and satisfying breakfast option.Akawi cheese is more than just an ingredient; it’s a connection to the rich traditions of Middle Eastern breakfasts. Its versatility pairs well with both savory and sweet dishes, making it a key ingredient for anyone wanting to experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors.Give your meals the upgrade they deserve with the finest akawi. Try Baladna Akawi Cheese today and taste the difference first-hand.

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.