Yogurt Cheese Labneh
Transform your humble yogurt into rich and velvety **Yogurt Cheese Labneh**, a Middle Eastern-inspired delicacy that’s as versatile as it is easy to make. This no-cook recipe calls for just two main ingredients—whole-milk plain yogurt and a touch of salt—transforming overnight into a luscious, tangy spread with a creamy, cheesecake-like texture. Customize your labneh by adding olive oil, fresh herbs like thyme or dill, or even a hint of garlic for an irresistible flavor boost. Perfect served as a dip with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or crunchy crackers, it also shines as a spread for sandwiches or wraps. Garnish with olive oil and za’atar for a show-stopping appetizer, or keep it simple for a wholesome, homemade treat. Ready in just 10 minutes of prep time and refrigerated to perfection, this labneh is a true kitchen staple you'll want on repeat.
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Ingredients
- 4 cups Whole-milk plain yogurt (unsweetened)
- 0.5 teaspoons Salt
- 2 tablespoons Optional: Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Optional: Fresh herbs (e.g., thyme, mint, or dill), minced
- 1 clove Optional: Garlic, finely grated
Directions
Step 1
In a mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt and salt until fully combined and smooth.
Step 2
Line a fine-mesh strainer with a double layer of cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel. Place the strainer over a large bowl to catch the liquid (whey) that drains from the yogurt.
Step 3
Pour the salted yogurt into the prepared strainer. Fold the cheesecloth or towel over the top to cover the yogurt.
Step 4
Refrigerate the entire setup (strainer, bowl, and yogurt) for at least 12 hours or up to 24 hours. The longer it drains, the thicker the labneh will become.
Step 5
After the draining period, remove the strainer from the bowl. Transfer the thickened labneh from the cheesecloth into a clean serving bowl.
Step 6
Optional step: Stir in olive oil, fresh herbs, and grated garlic for additional flavor.
Step 7
Serve as a dip with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers, or use as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Labneh can also be drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with za'atar seasoning or chopped nuts for a decorative presentation.
Step 8
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 1019 grams (1019.0g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 840 |
| Total Fat 58.60g | 75% |
| Saturated Fat 23.70g | 119% |
| Cholesterol 124mg | 41% |
| Sodium 1634mg | 71% |
| Total Carbohydrate 46.80g | 17% |
| Dietary Fiber 0.20g | 1% |
| Total Sugars 45.60g | |
| Protein 34.30g | 69% |
| Vitamin D 392IU | 1960% |
| Calcium 1195mg | 92% |
| Iron 1mg | 4% |
| Potassium 1539mg | 33% |
Source of Calories