Labneh is a creamy and tangy yogurt cheese. Although originating in the Middle East, it’s gained popularity across the globe for its delicious taste and many health benefits.
This delicious Middle Eastern dish is simple to prepare. Whether you’re a kitchen beginner or have been cooking for years, you can find a great Labneh recipe online and create this dish for yourself and your family.
So, what makes Labneh so great? Let’s take a deep dive into the health benefits of this traditional dish before running through a quick recipe that you can follow to create it at home.
Nutrient Dense
Labneh is packed full of nutrients. Because it is made from double-straining yogurt, it contains all nutrients found naturally in dairy. It’s a great source of protein and calcium, both of which are essential for healthy bodily functions.
Protein is required for muscle growth and maintenance, immune function, and healthy hair, nails, and skin. Calcium is necessary for bone health, muscle contraction, and nerve transmission.
Improved Digestive Health
As it’s made from dairy yoghurt, labneh contains probiotic bacteria that benefit your gut health. Probiotics help to break down ingested food to improve digestion and prevent unpleasant digestive symptoms like bloating, cramping, and constipation.
Probiotic bacteria also aid in vitamin production and may help to boost your immune function, reducing the risk of infection and illness.
Low in Fat
Compared to other types of cheese, labneh is relatively low in calories and saturated fats. It’s, therefore, a healthier alternative when trying to maintain a heart-healthy diet or lose weight. Its high nutrient content ensures you don’t face any nutritional deficiencies along your weight loss journey.
Versatile
Labneh’s versatility in the kitchen is another reason for its appeal. You can enjoy it in various dishes or use it as a dip. Some popular ways to consume labneh include spreading it on bread for sandwiches, adding it to salads, or using it as a dip for freshly chopped vegetables or fruits.
How to Make Labneh – A Simple Recipe
Now, let’s look at how you can make labneh at home to serve as part of your breakfasts, lunches, or dinners. Follow this simple recipe below.
- Find a good-quality yogurt. Make sure it’s plain and full-fat to maintain the flavor and creamy texture of the resulting Labneh.
- Strain the yogurt using a fine-mesh sieve or colander and a clean cheesecloth or kitchen towel. Place the sieve over a deep bowl to catch the whey. Pour the yogurt into the sieve and leave it to strain for 12 to 24 hours in the refrigerator. The longer you strain it, the thicker and creamier the labneh will be.
- Add extra flavorings if desired. You might want to crush some garlic into your Labneh or add a variety of spices to give it an extra kick.
- Store and serve your Labneh once you’ve completed the straining process. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Serve it in whichever way you like and enjoy this delicious Middle Eastern dish with your loved ones.
