26 June, 2025

Majdoula Cheese: Perfect for Grilled Cheese

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Majdoula cheese is a traditional Middle Eastern cheese with a distinctively braided shape, often compared to mozzarella for its semi-soft texture, yet it boasts a flavor profile that’s far more nuanced. Its name, “Majdoula,” comes from the Arabic word meaning "braided" or "twisted," referring to the way this cheese is shaped during production. Commonly enjoyed across Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, this cheese is becoming increasingly popular worldwide.

What Makes Majdoula Cheese Special?

Majdoula cheese is typically made from sheep, cow, or goat milk, or a combination of these. The cheese has a slightly salty flavor, which develops through the process of being brined. Like many cheeses in the Middle East, Majdoula is soaked in salt water to preserve it and enhance its taste. The brining process also helps create its firm yet elastic texture, making it an ideal candidate for grilling.

This cheese is often served fresh, with olive oil and herbs, but its true magic shines when heated. When grilled, Majdoula develops a crispy, golden crust while maintaining a creamy, gooey interior. This dual texture makes it ideal for creating an unforgettable grilled cheese sandwich.

Why Majdoula Cheese is Perfect for Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese is about balancing flavors and textures, and Majdoula’s salty, rich taste makes it an excellent match for the job. The cheese’s stringy nature, thanks to its braided structure, melts evenly when heated, creating that stretchy pull that everyone loves in a grilled cheese sandwich.

Here are a few reasons why Majdoula excels in a grilled cheese:

Melting Point: While some cheeses may melt too quickly or not enough, Majdoula has a perfect melting point. It melts slowly, allowing it to retain some structure while still becoming soft and creamy inside.
Texture: Its slightly firmer, fibrous texture before grilling contrasts beautifully with the soft, gooey consistency it takes on once melted.
Flavor: The briny and slightly tangy taste of Majdoula adds a rich layer of flavor to a grilled cheese that can elevate it beyond the usual cheddar or mozzarella.

How to Make a Majdoula Grilled Cheese

Making a grilled cheese with Majdoula is simple and rewarding. Here's a step-by-step guide to bring out the best of this cheese in your sandwich:

1. Choose your bread: Go for a rustic bread like sourdough or a good country loaf. The crunchier the crust, the better it will complement the creamy texture of the cheese.

2. Prepare the cheese: If your Majdoula cheese is fresh from the brine, give it a light rinse to remove excess salt. Slice or pull apart the braids to your desired thickness.

3. Add your favorite toppings: You can pair Majdoula with roasted vegetables like tomatoes or zucchini, or add some fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. If you prefer a more decadent option, drizzle some olive oil or even honey for a sweet-savory contrast.

4. Grill to perfection: Heat a pan with butter or olive oil on medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and let it cook slowly. Grill each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.

And don’t forget to serve and enjoy!

If you love experimenting with cheeses or are just seeking a break from the usual grilled cheese, try Baladna Majdoula for your next meal. It’s a traditional cheese that adds both depth of flavor and a bit of culinary adventure to your plate.

16 August, 2024

Cheddar Cheese : A Guide To This Classic Dairy Product

Cheese lovers rejoice! We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to cheddar cheese to highlight its origins, varieties, and uses. After reading it, we’re sure you’ll know this classic dairy product inside and out. As one of the world's most popular types of cheese, cheddar is loved for its distinctively sharp flavor and creamy texture. So whether you're a cheese connoisseur or just curious about the basics of this delicious staple, read on to learn more about cheddar cheese.What is cheddar cheese?Cheddar cheese originated in England and is one of the world's most popular and widely consumed types of cheese. Rich yellow or white cheddar cheese has a distinctive sharp, acidic flavor, ranging from mild to extra sharp.Cheddar cheese is typically aged from two months to five years, with extended aging periods resulting in sharper flavors. The longer the cheese ages, the less moisture it contains and the firmer its texture. What is the difference between white and yellow/orange cheddar?White and yellow/orange cheddar cheese are two popular variations of the same type of cheese. There are several differences between the two varieties.- Appearance: White cheddar is creamy and off-white, while yellow/orange cheddar is bright orange-yellow. This color difference is due to adding annatto, a natural food coloring, to yellow/orange cheddar. White cheddar does not contain this food additive.- Flavor: White cheddar has a mild flavor with notes of sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors, while yellow/orange cheddar has a slightly sharper and more intense flavor thanks to the annatto coloring agent.- Nutrition: Yellow/orange cheddar is higher in vitamin A than white cheddar due to the annatto coloring. Otherwise, both kinds of cheese are high in fat and calories, offering similar amounts of protein and calcium. How is cheddar cheese normally used?Cheddar cheese is primarily used for melting on top of dishes such as burgers or grilled sandwiches and shredding over salads or soups.Cheddar is also used in other dishes, such as casseroles, quiches, and macaroni and cheese. The rich flavor of cheddar cheese adds depth and complexity to these dishes. Cheddar cheese is often used in sauces, dips, spreads, and dressings. Its sharp taste is perfect for adding flavor to these foods without the need for additional spices or seasonings.Another widespread use for cheddar cheese is in the form of snacks. Cheddar cheese can be easily cubed for snacking or melted onto crackers for a tasty treat. Cubes of cheddar cheese are often added to fruit platters or charcuterie boards, creating a delicious snack that everyone will enjoy. It is also great for grating into dips or making cheesy toppings for nachos or pizza. How do you store cheddar cheese?To store cheddar cheese the right way, wrap it tightly in wax or parchment paper and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure all edges are sealed tightly to avoid air from entering. This will help prevent mold from forming and spoiling the flavor of the cheese. It's also essential to keep the cheese away from other food items, as cheddar cheese has a powerful smell and taste that can be easily transferred to other foods.It’s a bold world with cheddar cheese Whether you're a long-time cheddar cheese lover or just starting to incorporate it into your dishes, we hope this guide helped you understand all the delicious possibilities this timeless dairy product offers. With its nutty, sharp taste and endless versatility, why not let cheddar cheese take center stage in your next dish? If you're looking for a trusted dairy and beverage company in Qatar to purchase the finest cheddar cheese from, Baladna is the answer. Our wide selection of cheddar cheese is made with the highest-quality milk and brings you bold flavors with every bite. Get yours now!

16 August, 2024

Decoding Cheese Colors: What The Hue Says About Flavor

Cheese is a staple food in many cultures around the world. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes, from gooey pizza to creamy pasta. But did you know that the color of cheese can tell us a lot about its flavor, texture, and origin? In this article, we will explore the different colors of cheese and what they indicate.The science of cheese colorThe color of cheese is determined by various factors, including the breed of the cow, the animal's diet, and the processing method. The main component of cheese is milk, which contains a natural pigment called carotenoids. Carotenoids are responsible for giving cheese its yellow or orange color.The level of carotenoids in milk can vary depending on the cow's diet. Cows that consume more grass produce milk with higher levels of carotenoids, resulting in a more yellow-colored cheese. On the other hand, cows that are fed a corn or soybeans diet produce milk with lower levels of carotenoids, resulting in a whiter cheese.A look at white cheeseWhite cheese is often associated with milder, fresher flavors. It is typically made from cow's milk and has a mild, creamy texture. Examples of white cheese include feta, mozzarella, and ricotta.Feta cheese is a Greek cheese made from sheep's milk or a combination of sheep's and goat's milk. It has a crumbly texture and a tangy, slightly salty flavor. Mozzarella cheese is an Italian cheese made from buffalo or cow's milk. It has a soft, creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor. Ricotta cheese is an Italian cheese made from whey, a byproduct of cheese-making. It has a soft, creamy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.A look at yellow cheeseYellow cheese is known for having a stronger and more complex flavor. It is typically made from cow's milk and has a firmer texture. Examples of yellow cheese include cheddar, gouda, and Parmesan.Cheddar cheese is an English cheese made from cow's milk. It has a sharp, tangy flavor and a firm, crumbly texture. Gouda cheese is a Dutch cheese made from cow's milk. It has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and a firm, smooth texture. Parmesan cheese is an Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It has a salty, nutty flavor and a hard, granular texture.A look at blue cheeseBlue cheese is a type of cheese that is characterized by the presence of blue or green veins. It is typically made from cow's, sheep's, or goat's milk and has a strong, pungent flavor. Examples of blue cheese include Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and Stilton.Roquefort cheese is a French cheese made from sheep's milk. It has a sharp, tangy flavor and a creamy, crumbly texture. Gorgonzola cheese is an Italian cheese made from cow's milk. It has a sharp, tangy flavor and a creamy, crumbly texture. Stilton cheese is an English cheese made from cow's milk. It has a strong, tangy flavor and a creamy, crumbly texture.Regional variations in cheese colorThe color of cheese can also vary depending on the region where it is produced. For example, in France, cheese made from cow's milk tends to be more yellow than cheese made from goat's milk. In Italy, Parmesan cheese made from cow's milk is more yellow than Parmesan made from buffalo milk.The world of cheese is one full of wondersThe color of cheese can tell us a lot about its flavor, texture, and origin. By understanding the color of cheese, we can make more informed choices about which cheeses to use in our cooking and which ones to enjoy.Looking for healthy cheese options? Look no further than Baladna! Our 100% Qatari farm provides authentic, fresh, and quality dairy products that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Try our range of cheeses today and experience the delicious and healthy goodness of Baladna.

13 May, 2024

Mozzarella Magic: Why You Should Consider Eating More of This Cheese

Who doesn't love mozzarella cheese? Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle flavor make it a crowd favorite. It is great in pizzas, salads, and sandwiches and a must-have in dishes like lasagna and quiche.The best part is that mozzarella is not just delicious, but also offers a wide range of health benefits. You read that right and we’re here to list some of them for you:It’s a great source of proteinAre you looking for ways to increase your daily protein intake? If so, you should definitely consider adding some mozzarella cheese to your diet. Mozzarella cheese is a type of cheese that is often made from cow’s milk or a combination of cow’s milk and goat’s milk. That makes it a great source of protein, which we all know is important for muscle growth and the proper functioning of the immune system. A single serving of mozzarella cheese can provide up to 12 grams of protein, so make sure to buy some mozzarella cheese on your next grocery shopping spree! It’s good for bone health Mozzarella cheese is a great source of calcium, which means it can help with the development of strong and healthy bones. Additionally, mozzarella cheese is a good source of phosphorus, which also plays an important role in bone health. Phosphorus helps to absorb and use calcium and makes up a large portion of the bone itself. Eating mozzarella cheese can help maintain a healthy calcium-phosphorus balance which is necessary for strong and healthy bones.Mozzarella cheese is also a great source of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb and use calcium and also helps maintain healthy levels of calcium in the blood. It’s rich in vitamin B2Mozzarella cheese is an excellent source of riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, which is an essential nutrient that helps break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats and helps the body produce energy from the food we eat. Riboflavin is also important for the production of red blood cells, which help carry oxygen throughout the body. In addition, riboflavin helps to convert vitamin B6 and folate into forms that can be used by the body.Eating mozzarella cheese is an easy way to increase your riboflavin intake, as just one ounce of mozzarella cheese contains roughly 0.2 milligrams of riboflavin, which is about 15 percent of the recommended daily intake for adults.It’s filled with biotin Mozzarella cheese is a great source of biotin, which plays an important role in metabolism and aids in the breakdown of certain fats and proteins. It also helps to maintain healthy skin and hair while also aiding in the production of energy. Eating more mozzarella cheese is an easy way to increase your biotin intake and reap the benefits of this essential nutrient.Say cheese! Mozzarella cheese is an excellent food choice due to its high nutritional value and versatility. It is a great source of protein, calcium, phosphorus, riboflavin, and biotin, all of which play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy body. Its mild flavor and versatility make it a great addition to any meal. Eating more mozzarella cheese is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the many health benefits it has to offer.Maintain a healthy body without sacrificing taste with the help of Baladna mozzarella cheese. Produced from fresh farm milk, we offer an array of authentic Arabic cheeses, including Akawi, Halloumi, Majdoula, Moshalal, and Nabulsi. Order now!

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.