Labneh Recipe with Fresh Herbs and Cranberries The Mediterranean Dish from www.pinterest.com
Introduction
Labneh is a type of cheese which is made from strained yogurt. It is a popular Middle Eastern recipe that is enjoyed with bread or as a dip. It is a creamy and tangy cheese that can be easily made at home. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making labneh at home. We will provide you with a detailed recipe, including the ingredients, instructions, and nutritional information.
Ingredients
To make labneh, you will need the following ingredients: - 1 liter of full-fat yogurt - 1 teaspoon of salt - Cheesecloth - Olive oil - Optional: herbs and spices for flavoring
Instructions
1. Start by mixing the salt into the yogurt. Make sure to mix it well so that the salt is evenly distributed. 2. Take a cheesecloth and fold it into a square. Place it over a bowl so that the edges of the cheesecloth hang over the sides of the bowl. 3. Pour the salted yogurt into the cheesecloth. Gather the edges of the cheesecloth and tie them together to create a pouch. 4. Hang the cheesecloth over the bowl so that the yogurt can strain. You can do this by tying the cheesecloth pouch to a wooden spoon and resting the spoon on the edges of the bowl. 5. Let the yogurt strain for at least 12 hours, or overnight. The longer you leave it, the thicker the labneh will be. 6. After 12 hours, remove the cheesecloth pouch from the bowl. You should be left with a thick, creamy cheese. 7. Transfer the labneh to a bowl and add a drizzle of olive oil on top. You can also add herbs and spices for flavoring at this point. 8. Serve the labneh with bread or as a dip.
Nutrition
Here is the nutritional information for 1 ounce (28 grams) of labneh: - Calories: 60 - Fat: 5 grams - Carbohydrates: 2 grams - Protein: 3 grams Labneh is a good source of protein and healthy fats. It is also low in carbohydrates, making it a good option for those following a low-carb diet.
Tips for Making Labneh
- Use full-fat yogurt for the best results. Low-fat or non-fat yogurt will not produce the same creamy texture. - Make sure to strain the yogurt for at least 12 hours. This will ensure that the labneh is thick and creamy. - You can add herbs and spices for flavoring, such as garlic, mint, or za'atar. - Store the labneh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. - You can use the leftover whey (the liquid that is strained out of the yogurt) in smoothies or as a substitute for buttermilk in recipes.
Conclusion
Making labneh at home is a simple and rewarding process. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious and healthy cheese that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you eat it with bread, use it as a dip, or add it to your favorite recipes, labneh is a versatile and tasty addition to any kitchen. Give it a try and impress your friends and family with your homemade labneh!
