14 May, 2024

7 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Halloumi Cheese

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When it comes to the world of cheese, halloumi cheese easily steals the show – it’s firm, it’s delicious, and it can be cooked in so many different ways. Whether you're in the mood for grilled cheese or raw cheese, halloumi is the perfect choice. And on top of all that, its salty flavor makes it a great addition to a variety of different side dishes.

If you're looking to take your halloumi game to the next level, we've got your backs. Here are the top seven side dishes that go perfectly well with halloumi cheese:

1. Tomato Zaatar Soup

Tomato Zaatar Soup is a delicious side dish that goes really well with halloumi cheese. This soup is made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices, including zaatar, a Middle Eastern spice blend that is made up of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds. The zaatar's nutty flavor pairs well with fried bite-sized halloumi cheese.

2. Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes & Mint

Pasta with cherry tomatoes and mint is the perfect side dish to pair with halloumi cheese. This delicious dish combines the salty, savory flavor of halloumi with the freshness of mint and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes.

Simply cook your favorite pasta according to the package directions, and when it’s done, toss it with a mixture of cherry tomatoes, fresh mint, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve it alongside your grilled halloumi cheese and watch your taste buds go on an adventure!

3. Couscous Salad

Not only is couscous salad delicious and easy to make, but it also pairs perfectly with halloumi cheese. To start, boil one cup of couscous in two cups of water. Once cooked, toss in tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Top it off with a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing. Serve it with grilled or fried halloumi on top or on the side.

4. Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with halloumi cheese. It is made by cooking rice in a flavorful broth and a variety of herbs, spices, and vegetables. To start, sauté some onions, garlic, and other veggies in a pan. Once soft, add the rice and cook until tender. Add a flavorful broth, herbs, and spices, and serve with fried or grilled halloumi.

5. Grilled Vegetables

Grilling vegetables is a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. When served alongside halloumi cheese, grilled vegetables are an irresistible combination. Try grilling eggplant, bell peppers, asparagus, mushrooms, or zucchini to serve alongside halloumi cheese until they are tender and lightly charred. Grilled vegetables provide a great contrast in texture and their smokiness pairs perfectly with grilled halloumi cheese.

6. Roasted Potatoes

Roasted potatoes are a delicious and easy side dish to serve with halloumi cheese. To make, cut potatoes into wedges or cubes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, the perfect addition to fried halloumi cheese.

7. Sweet Chili Mayo

Nothing goes better with fried halloumi cheese than a delicious dipping sauce. Sweet chili mayo is a simple dipping sauce that will take your cheese platter to the next level. To make, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice in a bowl. The mayo provides the creamy texture, the sweet chili sauce adds a bit of sweetness and a hint of heat, and the lime juice brings it all together with a bright acidity.

Halloumi cheese is the salty partner you’ve been looking for

Halloumi cheese is a delicious addition to any meal, thanks to its salty and savory flavor. So wait no longer, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy the deliciousness of halloumi!

Are you looking for premium dairy products? If so, Baladna is your best option. We are the leading dairy company in Qatar, offering an extensive range of products including fresh milk, cheese, yoghurt, and cream. Our dairy products have become staples in many households in Qatar due to their high quality and taste. Whether you are looking for halloumi, feta cheese, or any other cheese, we are the perfect choice. Browse through our list of cheeses today!

12 September, 2024

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Consuming Yoghurt

Discover the irresistible world of yoghurt, a delightful dairy product made by fermenting milk with beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. Creamy and indulgent, this nutritious superfood is packed with protein, calcium, and even probiotics to nourish your body and soul. Whether enjoyed in its pure form or topped with fruits, nuts or other delectable ingredients, yoghurt has become a go-to snack for many. But what kind of questions do people have about consuming yoghurt? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions: 1. When should people eat yoghurt?The best time to eat yoghurt is on an empty stomach in the morning. Not only is it tasty and nutritious, but it’s also a great way to get a healthy dose of probiotics into your diet. It also helps regulate the digestive system while boosting your energy for the rest of the day.When eating yoghurt in the morning, choosing a low-sugar and protein variety is essential. Greek yoghurt is an excellent choice as it contains probiotics and is high in protein and calcium. You can also add some fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds to your yoghurt for nutrition.2. What are the effects of eating yoghurt at night?Eating yoghurt at night can have a few potential benefits and a few potential drawbacks. Yoghurt is a good source of calcium and probiotics, which can help boost your immune system and improve digestion. It can also help keep your blood sugar steady, benefiting those with diabetes.On the downside, eating yoghurt at night can cause heartburn and indigestion due to its high fat content. It can also lead to weight gain if you’re not careful with portion size. Additionally, if you’re eating yoghurt containing added sugar, it can lead to a spike in blood sugar and an energy crash later.3. Is it okay for people to eat yoghurt right after meals?Yes, people can eat yoghurt after meals. Yoghurt can be a great way to get your dose of probiotics, which can help keep your gut healthy and improve digestion. However, people should wait for at least two hours after meals to avoid stomach acid from killing the live bacteria.Yoghurt can also help balance blood sugar levels, which helps avoid energy crashes after eating. Additionally, yoghurt is a good source of calcium, which can help strengthen bones and teeth. However, it is essential to watch your portion sizes and avoid yoghurts with added sugar.4. When should people eat yoghurt for weight loss?Eating yoghurt as part of a balanced diet is great for weight loss. Yoghurt can be a great snack as it is lower in calories and fat than many other snacks, such as chips and cookies. It is also a good source of protein and calcium, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.Eating yoghurt in the morning or as a mid-morning snack is best. Eating yoghurt in the morning can help kickstart your metabolism and give you energy for the day. Eating it as a mid-morning snack can help prevent overeating later in the day.5. Are there side effects to eating yoghurt at night?In general, eating yoghurt at night has no significant side effects. However, it is essential to note that overeating yoghurt at night could lead to indigestion and heartburn. Eating a light snack, such as a small serving of yoghurt, is recommended if you eat late at night.

10 November, 2024

Spreadable Cream Cheese: Easy & Tasty Snack Ideas

Cream cheese is a universal favorite — among both kids and adults alike. Whether you're looking for something quick and satisfying, or a more sophisticated bite for a party, Baladna’s spreadable cream cheese is the perfect go-to for such times. It’s time to get creative in the kitchen and put together treats your kids will love. Here are a few ideas:1. Cream Cheese & Veggie CrackersThis simple, tasty snack requires just a few ingredients: whole-grain crackers, Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese, and fresh vegetables.How to Make:Spread a generous amount of cream cheese on each cracker.Top with thinly sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.For extra flavor, sprinkle some za'atar.2. Cream Cheese PinwheelsFor a fun and playful snack, cream cheese pinwheels are perfect for kids.How to Make:Spread Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese on a soft tortilla.Add slices of turkey and spinach leaves.Roll tightly and slice into bite-sized pinwheels.3. Cream Cheese and Za'atar PiesThese pies combine the savory tang of za'atar with the rich creaminess of Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese, offering a delicious twist on the traditional za'atar manoushe.How to Make:Use store-bought or homemade za'atar manoushe or mini za'atar pies.Add a spoonful of cream cheese on top.Serve warm and enjoy!4. Cream Cheese & Olive BitesFor a quick Mediterranean-inspired snack, try cream cheese and olive bites. The salty olives pair perfectly with the creamy richness of Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese.How to Make:Spoon Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese onto small slices of baguette or toast.Top each slice with a few olive halves (green or black).For an extra touch, sprinkle some dried herbs like oregano or zaa’tar.Whether you're planning a quick on-the-go snack for your kids or an easy lunch for school, Baladna Spreadable Cream Cheese brings a deliciously creamy touch to every meal. Enjoy these simple recipes that are sure to make your school season preparations a delight!

14 May, 2024

Everything You Need to Know About Akawi Cheese

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 akawiAkawi 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 cookingAkawi 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.

27 January, 2023

Halloumi Cheese: Everything You Need to Know

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. StorageKeep 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 grillHalloumi 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!