Labneh

Description

Labneh is a thick, creamy yogurt cheese with a slightly tangy flavor and a smooth, slightly grainy texture, usually served as a spreadable cream or shaped into balls and drizzled with olive oil. Visually, it has a snow-white color and holds additions like herbs, spices, or olive oil well. Nutritionally, it is rich in protein and calcium, contains probiotics beneficial for gut flora, and usually has less lactose than fresh milk, making it a lighter alternative to fatty cheeses, with a moderate fat content depending on the yogurt used. In the kitchen, labneh works great as a spread for bread, a dip for vegetables, a base for sauces, an addition to salads, or seasoned and served with meat or fish; it also pairs well with sweet dishes with olive oil and honey. To maintain freshness, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use it within 7–14 days; its shelf life can be extended by covering the top with olive oil, freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture.