14 May, 2024

Traditional Greek Dishes with Feta Cheese You Must Try

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The world of feta cheese is a salty, crumbly one - and we have Greece to thank for that. This cheese has been a favorite in many cultures and cuisines for centuries, and are you even surprised? It’s delicious and goes well with so many different meals. It’s also what makes Greek Salad so irresistible.

Aside from its savory goodness, it’s also loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also packed with protein and light on the fat, so it’s a win-win option for those who lead a healthy lifestyle.

The best part about feta cheese is its versatility. One can’t help but get creative with this type of cheese, and we’re here to share two dishes that you must try to make with the feta cheese you have hanging around in your fridge.

Spanakopita

Spanakopita is a beloved Greek snack and one of the most popular dishes in Greek cuisine, and for good reason. It is a flaky pastry parcel filled with a delicious combination of sautéed spinach, gooey feta cheese, and a unique blend of herbs and spices. It makes for a great appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal.

To make the filling, sauté the spinach with onions and garlic to add a rich depth of flavor that pairs nicely with feta cheese. Once cooled, add chopped parsley, crumbled feta, grated Parmesan cheese for extra cheesy goodness, and some salt and pepper to taste. You could also add your favorite herbs and spices as well.

The pastry used to make spanakopita is light and flaky, and is usually made from layers of butter and flour, rolled out, and filled with spinach and feta. Alternatively, you can use store-bought phyllo pastry to make the preparations much easier. All you have to do is butter a pan and layer your phyllo pastry on top of each other, with butter separating the layers. Pour the spinach and feta mixture over the phyllo dough layers and then fold the edges of the phyllo dough over the spinach mixture. Bake in a pre-heated 375°F oven for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Baked Feta

When cooking with feta, using only the finest Greek feta is key. That is because feta from Greece is known for its superior flavor, texture, and quality. Baked feta, in particular, requires the best feta to ensure a delicious and memorable meal.

This traditional Greek recipe is a must-try! All you have to do is bake a block of feta with tomatoes, peppers, and onion to create a wonderfully aromatic dish that will impress. The combination of flavors creates an unbeatable combination of salty, tangy, and sweet. To prepare this recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

2. Cut the feta into cubes and place in a baking dish.

3. Add the tomatoes, peppers, and onion, and drizzle with olive oil.

4. Sprinkle with oregano, basil, and salt and pepper to taste.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

The feta cheese will soften and melt into the vegetables, while the tomatoes and peppers will become slightly charred. Adding herbs and spices will infuse the entire dish with a delicious aroma.

It’s always better with feta

Feta cheese is a magical ingredient that can leave different types of palates amazed. From salads to appetizers, there is so much you can do with feta cheese.

If you want the finest Greek feta cheese, check out what Baladna has to offer. We pride ourselves on bringing only the best exotic cheeses to the market. So, if you want to take Greece to your home, order our feta cheese now!

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.

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!

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.

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.