Lebneh

FOR CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD & GRILLED DISHES 

Lebneh, also known as labneh or labne, is a creamy and tangy Middle Eastern yogurt cheese that has gained popularity around the world for its rich flavor and versatility. It is made by straining yogurt to remove excess whey, resulting in a thick and spreadable consistency that is similar to cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Lebneh has a distinct tanginess and a smooth texture, making it a perfect base for both sweet and savory dishes.

To make lebneh, yogurt is usually mixed with a bit of salt and then left to strain through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer. The whey drains off, leaving behind a concentrated yogurt that becomes thicker the longer it’s strained. This process can take anywhere from a few hours to overnight, depending on the desired consistency.

MAKES: ABOUT 2 CUPS

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, preferably a full-fat variety
• ½ cup diced cucumber
• ½ cup dried cherries
• ¼ cup chopped walnuts, toasted in a dry skillet until fragrant
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill or 2 teaspoons dried dill
• 1 teaspoon dried sumac or za’atar, or more to taste
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt or coarse sea salt, or more to taste
• Olive oil, about 1 teaspoon

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, diced cucumber, dried cherries, chopped toasted walnuts, and minced fresh dill (or dried dill).
2. Stir in ½ teaspoon of the dried sumac (or za’atar) and the kosher salt. Adjust the amount of salt to taste.
3. Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of olive oil over the lebneh mixture.
4. Sprinkle the remaining dried sumac (or za’atar) on top of the lebneh.
5. Serve the lebneh alongside grilled chicken or other dishes.
6. Any leftover lebneh sauce can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Classic Dip: Serve lebneh as a dip with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs like fresh mint, thyme, or oregano. Provide a variety of vegetables, pita bread, and crackers for dipping.
• Breakfast Parfait: Layer lebneh with granola, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey for a delicious and nutritious breakfast parfait.
• Sandwich Spread: Use lebneh as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. It adds creaminess and tanginess to your favorite fillings.
• Flatbread Topping: Spread lebneh over warm flatbreads and top with roasted vegetables, olives, and a sprinkle of za’atar for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Salad Dressing: Thin out lebneh with a bit of water and lemon juice to create a creamy salad dressing. Add herbs and spices for extra flavor.
• Marinade Base: Mix lebneh with herbs, garlic, and spices to create a flavorful marinade for chicken, lamb, or seafood.
• Dessert Swirl: Swirl lebneh into desserts like cheesecakes, muffins, or quick breads for added creaminess and tang.
• Savory Snack: Spread lebneh on rice cakes or whole grain crackers and top with sliced cucumber, radish, or avocado for a quick and satisfying snack.
• Stuffed Peppers: Fill sweet bell peppers with a mixture of lebneh, chopped herbs, and cooked quinoa for a refreshing and nutritious appetizer.
• Middle Eastern Mezze: Serve lebneh as part of a mezze platter alongside hummus, falafel, olives, and stuffed grape leaves.
• Grilled Meats: Use lebneh as a cooling sauce to complement the flavors of grilled meats like kebabs or shawarma.
• Taco Topping: Add a dollop of lebneh to your tacos or fajitas for a creamy and tangy twist.