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!

13 May, 2024

Is Mozzarella Cheese Healthy? We’ve Got Your Answer

Mozzarella cheese is a type of cheese that is popular in Italian cuisine. It is made from cow's milk and is one of the most popular cheeses used in pizza, lasagna, and other Italian dishes. Many people are curious if mozzarella cheese is a healthy food choice, and the answer is that it can be! Let's learn more about this:It's a good source of proteinMozzarella is a great source of protein, providing 8 grams per one-ounce serving. This makes it a great choice for people looking to increase their protein intake. Protein plays an important role in building and maintaining muscle, and it's also essential for healthy skin, bones, and organs. Eating mozzarella can help you meet your protein needs without having to rely on other animal proteins such as beef or chicken.It's a good source of many essential minerals Mozzarella is rich in essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Calcium, crucial for strong teeth and bones, prevents decay and gum disease. Selenium in mozzarella protects cells, reduces inflammation, and supports the immune system, benefiting cognitive function. Additionally, the cheese boasts high Vitamin A content, promoting healthy eyes, skin, teeth, and gums, while aiding in new bone cell growth.It has less sodium than most other cheeses One of the most significant benefits of mozzarella cheese is that it has less sodium than most other cheeses. Sodium is an important mineral that helps regulate blood pressure, as well as fluid balance in the body. When consumed in excess, it can lead to a number of health problems, including hypertension and stroke. By choosing a low-sodium cheese like mozzarella, you can rest assured that you won’t be overloading your body with sodium.It's lower in saturated fatSaturated fats are types of fats that can raise cholesterol levels in the body and increase the risk of heart disease. However, mozzarella has a significantly lower amount of saturated fat than other cheeses. A single serving of regular mozzarella cheese (about 1.5 ounces) contains just 3.5 grams of saturated fat, compared to 7.5 grams in a serving of cheddar cheese. This makes mozzarella an excellent choice for those who need to watch their saturated fat intake.How much mozzarella should you eat in a day? If you’re looking to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your diet, mozzarella cheese is a great choice. But how much mozzarella should you eat each day?The answer really depends on your individual health needs and goals. For most healthy adults, the recommended daily intake of cheese is around 1.5 ounces. This amount provides a good balance between the health benefits of cheese and the potential risks associated with too much cheese.When it comes to mozzarella cheese specifically, 1.5 ounces is a good guideline. This amount provides around 100 calories, 7 grams of protein, and 6 grams of fat. It’s also a great source of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12.If you’re looking for a little extra flavor and nutrition, you could add a few slices of mozzarella to your salads, sandwiches, or pizzas. You could also use mozzarella cheese to make delicious homemade pizzas, calzones, and even grilled cheese sandwiches.For those who are trying to lose weight, it’s important to keep in mind that cheese can be high in calories and fat. So if you’re trying to cut back on calories, you may want to limit your portion sizes.Say mozzarella!Mozzarella cheese can be considered a healthy food option when eaten in moderation. It is a good source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, and is lower in fat and sodium than many other cheese varieties. That said, it is important to remember that consuming too much of any food, even one as healthy as mozzarella, can lead to weight gain and other health issues. It's also vital that you get your mozzarella cheese from a trusted dairy and beverage company like Baladna.Baladna cheese, including mozzarella, is fresh and high quality. Baladna is among the biggest cattle farms with about 24000 cows that are kept in a well-conditioned environment to ensure only the best dairy products. Try Baladna mozzarella cheese and other products today!

14 October, 2024

2 Overlooked Tricks on How to Properly Store Cheese

Cheese is a beloved delight enjoyed all over the world, gracing the tables of fine dining restaurants and everyday kitchens alike. Its versatility knows no limits as it brings a distinct flavor and delightful texture to all kinds of recipes. Having said that, one must not overlook the importance of storing cheese correctly to preserve its taste, texture, and aroma.With a few simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your cheese stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Read on to learn how to properly store cheese to keep it as fresh as ever. Wrapping it Storing cheese the right way is essential for preserving its flavor and texture. Cheese paper, waxed, or parchment paper are all great options to do just that. Wrapping cheese in these types of paper allows the cheese to “breathe,” meaning that it is protected from the elements while still allowing some air circulation. This helps keep the cheese moist and flavorful.Cheese paper is the ideal option for soft, semi-soft, and semi-hard cheeses. Cheese paper is specifically designed to keep cheese fresh and flavorful. It is made from cotton or linen and is lightly treated with a wax or mineral oil-based substance. Waxed or parchment paper are also suitable for storing soft (like the finest Greek feta cheese), semi-soft, and semi-hard cheeses (like Gouda). They are slightly less ideal than cheese paper, as they are not as breathable, but they still protect the cheese from the environment.No matter which type of paper you choose, it is essential to ensure the cheese is completely covered. It helps keep the cheese from drying out and losing moisture. It is also necessary to change the paper periodically to help keep the cheese in the best condition possible.Storing at the right temperatureTemperature is an essential factor in cheese's flavor and texture. While cold cheese can be enjoyed as a delicacy, cold temperatures may be needed to maintain the taste and texture of cheese. The best temperature for cheese is usually between 40 and 53°F. Cheese should always be stored in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. A refrigerator is an ideal environment for cheese storage, though keeping the temperature between 40°F and 53°F is necessary. Cheese likes to be kept at a cool, steady temperature. When cheese is stored below 40°F, the fats and proteins begin to separate. It can cause the texture of the cheese to become crumbly and dry. The flavor of the cheese can also become muted and less complex.When cheese is stored at temperatures above 53°F, it can spoil more quickly. It can cause the cheese to become slimy and the flavor to become bitter and unpleasant.Savor cheese and store with care!It is essential to understand the intricacies of proper cheese storage to ensure the long-term satisfaction of cheese lovers. Whether it be the finest Greek feta cheese or classic cheddar, adequate storage is key. With the proper knowledge of the appropriate temperature, humidity, and packaging, cheese lovers can enjoy their favorite cheese for months, if not years, to come.Now that you know how to store cheeses properly, you can confidently buy the finest cheeses out there with Baladna. Our 24,000 cows are in a comfortable and well-conditioned environment, making their cheeses one of the best in the market. Shop now!

14 October, 2024

6 Cheese Facts More People Should Know About

Cheese is a delicious and versatile food that has been enjoyed by people worldwide for centuries. Cheese is made from the milk of various animals, including cows, goats, and sheep. The first step in making cheese is pasteurizing the milk, which involves heating it to a specific temperature to kill harmful bacteria. Once the milk has been pasteurized, it is cooled and mixed with rennet, an enzyme that causes it to coagulate and form curds, eventually turning into the cheese we eat. However, few people know much about cheese, so we will discuss some facts you should know below: #1 - Cheese should be eaten sparinglyYou don't need to eliminate cheese from your diet completely. However, suppose you suffer from high cholesterol or high blood pressure. In that case, it's best to consume high-fat cheeses in moderation because certain roquefort, halloumi, feta, and cheese singles can be saltier than seawater. Cheese does, however, provide calcium and protein, making it acceptable in moderate amounts. To avoid temptation, maintain smaller servings of cheese and measure their weight. Opt for cheeses with a lower fat content like mozzarella, feta, cottage cheese, or those labeled as reduced-fat, as they contain lower amounts of saturated fat.#2 - Cheese can be addictiveStudies indicate that casein, a protein in dairy products and particularly abundant in cheese, produces opiates known as casomorphins during digestion. These opiates can indirectly provide a sense of comfort to the brain through hormones. If you consume a large amount of cheese, you might become used to its salty taste or develop a routine of eating it at specific times. Therefore, paying attention to your eating habits and slowly decreasing your cheese consumption is essential.#3 - Goat cheese is better than cow cheese Soft goat cheese has around 26g of fat per 100g, comparable to brie and edam, and roughly the same salt content as camembert. It is classified as a high-fat item, while cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, and feta, typically made from sheep's milk or a blend of sheep's and goat's milk, have lower fat content.Goat cheese is often considered a better option for those with lactose intolerance compared to soft cow's milk cheeses. While it has a similar lactose content to semi-soft cheeses like brie or feta, it contains less lactose than moister cheeses such as ricotta and cottage cheese.#4 - Cheese can help keep the bones strongCheese is an excellent source of calcium. For example, a 30g serving of cheddar supplies more than 25% of an adult's daily needs. Nonetheless, other dairy products like yoghurt and milk are equally beneficial for bone health and contain less fat and salt. Cheese also has a minor quantity of vitamin D, a fat-soluble nutrient that aids calcium absorption from our diet. Dairy products with less fat, like semi-skimmed milk, have lower amounts of vitamin D than full-fat cheese.#5 - Reduced-fat cheese is a valid optionRemember that "reduced fat" does not automatically mean "low fat.” It simply indicates that the fat content is 25% lower than in the original version. To determine if the fat content is high (over 17.5g/100g), medium (3.1-17.5g/100g), or low (3g or less/100g), be sure to check the product's label.Additionally, you can cook and bake using low-fat cheese, but remember that it might take longer for low-fat hard cheese varieties to melt. To help with melting, grate the cheese finely and use low heat. When baking or grilling, these cheeses might create skin, so adding them closer to the end of the cooking time is better.#6 - Grated cheese is better than sliced Many people use a smaller amount of cheese when grating it. A typical pre-sliced cheese weighs around 20-30 grams, and several slices are often used in a sandwich. However, you must be mindful of the portion size when grating cheese for use in sauces, toasted sandwiches, or baked potatoes, as it's pretty simple to use an excessive amount unintentionally.Say Cheese! Cheese is a delicious and beloved food enjoyed by people worldwide. However, it's essential to consume it in moderation and be aware of its nutritional value because it can be high in calories, fat, and sodium.If you are looking for high-quality dairy products, Baladna has what you need! We offer various healthy products, such as cheeses, yoghurt, milk, and fruit juices, all at affordable prices. Call us today at +974 4035 8888 to place an order!

14 May, 2024

Everything You Need to Know About Greek Yoghurt

Greek yoghurt is a type of yoghurt that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its high protein content and creamy texture. Greek yoghurt is an excellent source of calcium, protein, and probiotics, making it a nutritious and delicious snack or breakfast option. Are you ready to learn everything you need to know about Greek yoghurt? How Greek yoghurt is madeGreek yoghurt is made by straining regular yoghurt to remove the whey, resulting in a thicker, creamier product. The process of straining the yoghurt is done using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer. The whey (liquid) is removed, and the remaining yoghurt is placed in a container for several hours or overnight. The yoghurt is then ready to be enjoyed!What are the benefits of Greek yoghurt?1. Rich in proteinWhen it comes to nutrition, Greek yoghurt is a winner. It is high in protein, containing around twice as much as regular yoghurt. This makes it an excellent option for those trying to increase their protein intake or build muscle.2. Can be added to various recipesGreek yoghurt is a type of yoghurt that is thicker and creamier than regular yoghurt. It is a great addition to many dishes and can be used in various ways. Greek yoghurt can be used as a topping for salads or baking recipes, as a substitute for sour cream in sauces, or as a snack with a bit of honey or fruit.3. Helps your gutGreek yoghurt contains live bacteria that can help improve the balance of good bacteria in the gut, making it easier for the digestive system to absorb the nutrients it needs and reduce uncomfortable symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and indigestion.4. Strengthens your bonesGreek yoghurt is a fantastic way to get your daily dose of calcium. This nutrient helps keep our bones and teeth strong and healthy. Additionally, it can be blended into smoothies for an extra protein punch or used as a healthier substitute in baking recipes instead of cream cheese or butter.What to look for when buying Greek yoghurt1. The label should indicate whether the yoghurt has been strained. Straining the yoghurt involves removing the liquid whey and other liquids, resulting in a thicker and creamier texture.2. To be considered probiotic yoghurt, the yoghurt must contain live and active cultures of beneficial bacteria. These bacteria help promote a healthy digestive system and provide other health benefits.3. It is important to look closely at the nutrition label to identify any extra sugars or other artificial components, such as artificial sweeteners, that may have been added to the food.Greek yoghurt is a delicious & healthy treat Greek yoghurt is worth considering if you’re looking to increase your protein intake or enjoy a creamy snack.If you want to add Greek yoghurt to your daily meals, look for Baladna! We are a trusted dairy and beverage company in Qatar that offers authentic, fresh and quality dairy products.