Description:
Experience the refreshing taste of the Mediterranean with this creamy labneh dip. This delightful recipe gives a twist to a traditional Arabic dish, making use of the fresh herbs from your garden. It’s the perfect pairing for fresh veggies, chips, or a mezze platter.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
- ½ tsp Maldon salt
Optional Toppings and Mix-Ins:
- 2 tsp Sumac powder (or lemon zest)
- 1 tsp Za’atar spice
- ¼ tsp Garlic powder
- ¼ cup Pistachios (chopped)
- 2 TBSP Fresh herbs (e.g., dill, mint, oregano, basil)
Instructions:
- Mix the yogurt and salt together in a medium-sized bowl.
- Lay several layers of cheesecloth inside a mesh strainer and transfer the yogurt mixture onto the cheesecloth.
- Suspend the strainer over a large or deep bowl, ensuring that there’s ample space below for the whey to collect.
- Refrigerate for 24 hours, allowing the yogurt to strain.
- After straining, transfer the labneh from the cheesecloth to a separate bowl.
- Garnish with the desired toppings or mix-ins. Serve and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per 0.25 cup serving):
- Calories: 31
- Fat: 0.2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Trans Fat: 0.003g
- Cholesterol: 3mg
- Sodium: 163mg
- Potassium: 71mg
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 5g
Notes:
- Enhance the dish for a sweeter touch by garnishing with honey, lemon zest, and finely chopped mint — perfect for fruit dipping.
About Labneh:
Labneh, a traditional yogurt prevalent in Arabic and Middle Eastern cuisines, has gained worldwide popularity. Prepared by straining whey from whole milk yogurt and adding various seasonings, labneh stands out for its concentrated flavor, increased protein content, probiotics, and healthy fats.
Labneh Tips:
- Use full-fat animal milk yogurt like plain yogurt, goat milk yogurt, or Greek yogurt.
- When straining, ensure the bowl is sufficiently deep to prevent the yogurt from sitting in its whey.
- If you lack a metal strainer, utilize a cheesecloth, placing it atop your bowl and placing the yogurt at its center.
Revitalize your taste buds with this Mediterranean delicacy, which celebrates both tradition and innovation. Enjoy the creamy labneh with pita chips, fresh veggies, or as a unique addition to your recipes. Whether sweet or savory, labneh’s versatility ensures that every bite is a treat!
About The Author
