The Easiest Homemade Labneh! The Dish On Healthy

Oleh gzachard October 06, 2023 Post a Comment

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What is Labneh?

Labneh is a creamy yogurt cheese that is popular in the Middle East. It is made by straining yogurt to remove the whey, which results in a thick, tangy spread that is similar in texture to cream cheese. Labneh is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, and it is also a healthier alternative to cream cheese and other dairy-based spreads.

Labneh can be made with any type of yogurt, but it is best to use a full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest results. The yogurt is usually seasoned with salt and sometimes other spices like cumin, garlic, or za’atar before straining. The longer the yogurt is strained, the thicker and creamier the labneh will be.

How to Make Labneh?

Making labneh at home is easy and requires only a few ingredients. Here is Yotam Ottolenghi’s recipe for homemade labneh:

Line a large sieve with a cheesecloth or muslin cloth and set it over a bowl.
In a mixing bowl, combine 500g of full-fat Greek yogurt with 1 tsp of salt and mix well.
Transfer the yogurt mixture to the cheesecloth-lined sieve and fold the cloth over to cover the yogurt.
Place the bowl with the sieve in the fridge and let it strain for at least 12 hours or up to 24 hours for a thicker consistency.
Once strained, discard the whey and transfer the labneh to a clean container.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle some za’atar or other herbs and spices on top, if desired.

What are the Health Benefits of Labneh?

Labneh is a healthy alternative to cream cheese and other dairy-based spreads because it is lower in fat and calories. It is also a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Labneh is also a good option for people who are lactose intolerant because the straining process removes most of the lactose from the yogurt.

Additionally, labneh can be a good option for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight because it is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It can also be used as a substitute for mayonnaise or sour cream in dips and dressings to reduce the calorie and fat content of these dishes.

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What are Some Serving Suggestions for Labneh?

Labneh can be served in a variety of ways and used in many different dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve labneh as a dip with pita bread or vegetables.
Spread labneh on toast or bagels instead of cream cheese.
Use labneh as a base for salad dressings or dips.
Top labneh with fresh herbs, olives, or roasted vegetables.
Use labneh as a substitute for sour cream in tacos or other Mexican dishes.

How to Store Labneh?

Labneh can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It can also be frozen for up to three months, but it may lose some of its texture and creaminess when thawed. To use frozen labneh, thaw it in the fridge overnight and stir well before using.

Conclusion

Homemade labneh is a delicious and healthy alternative to cream cheese and other dairy-based spreads. It is easy to make at home with just a few ingredients and can be used in a variety of dishes. Labneh is also a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, making it a great addition to a healthy diet. Try making Yotam Ottolenghi’s recipe for homemade labneh and experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.

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