Labaneh

Labaneh Recipe - Traditional Turkish Yogurt and Garlic Dish

Region / culture: Turkey | Preparation time: 8 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Labaneh is a creamy and tangy Middle Eastern yogurt cheese that is simple to make and incredibly versatile in the kitchen. This recipe will guide you through the process of making your own labaneh at home.

History

Labaneh has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient times. It is traditionally made by straining yogurt to remove the whey, resulting in a thick and creamy cheese-like consistency.

Ingredients

2 cups of nonfat plain yogurt
0.5 clove of garlic (optional)

How to prepare

Line a strainer with 2 layers of cheesecloth. Place the strainer over a bowl and pour the yogurt into the strainer. Set it aside at room temperature for at least 8 hours or until it becomes very thick.
If you are using garlic, push it through a garlic press and stir it into the thickened labaneh.
Refrigerate the labaneh.

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs such as mint, parsley, or dill for added flavor.
Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle za'atar or sumac on top for a Middle Eastern twist.
Mix in roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a savory kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality, nonfat plain yogurt for the best results.

- Be patient when straining the yogurt, as the longer you let it sit, the thicker the labaneh will become.

- Feel free to customize your labaneh by adding garlic or other herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Labaneh can be enjoyed as a spread on toast or crackers, as a dip for vegetables or pita bread, or as a topping for salads and grilled meats.

Cooking Techniques

Straining the yogurt is the key technique in making labaneh, as it helps to remove excess liquid and create a thick and creamy consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find nonfat plain yogurt, you can use full-fat yogurt instead, but keep in mind that the labaneh will be higher in fat.

Make Ahead Tips

Labaneh can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve labaneh in a small bowl drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with herbs for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Labaneh pairs well with fresh vegetables, olives, pita bread, and grilled meats.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store labaneh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature or microwave it for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of labaneh contains approximately 60 calories.

Carbohydrates

Labaneh is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

Labaneh is a low-fat cheese, making it a healthier alternative to traditional cream cheese or sour cream.

Proteins

Labaneh is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Labaneh contains calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

Alergens

Labaneh is a dairy product and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Labaneh is a nutritious and delicious dairy product that is low in carbohydrates and fats, making it a healthy addition to your diet.

Summary

Labaneh is a versatile and nutritious yogurt cheese that is easy to make at home. With its creamy texture and tangy flavor, it is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Labaneh. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother, a treasure trove of traditional Middle Eastern recipes that had been passed down through generations. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I was immediately drawn to the simplicity and elegance of this dish - a creamy, tangy yogurt cheese that was both versatile and delicious.

I had never tasted Labaneh before, but I knew that I had to give it a try. I set out to gather the necessary ingredients - plain yogurt, salt, and a few hours of patience. The process was simple enough: mix the yogurt with salt, strain it through a cheesecloth, and let it sit in the fridge until it had reached the desired consistency. I followed the instructions carefully, watching as the yogurt slowly transformed into a thick, creamy cheese.

The next step was to flavor the Labaneh to my liking. I decided to add a generous drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of za'atar, and a handful of fresh herbs from my garden. The final result was a beautiful, flavorful cheese that was perfect for spreading on pita bread, dipping vegetables, or serving alongside grilled meats.

I couldn't wait to share my creation with my family. As they gathered around the table, I presented them with a platter of Labaneh, freshly made and bursting with flavor. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bite, savoring the creamy texture and tangy taste. They couldn't believe that I had made it myself - it tasted just like the Labaneh they remembered from our trips to the Middle East.

As we enjoyed our meal together, I shared the story of how I had discovered the recipe for Labaneh and how it had become a new favorite in our household. My family was impressed by my culinary skills and encouraged me to continue exploring new recipes and flavors. And so, my journey into the world of Middle Eastern cuisine began.

Over the years, I have continued to experiment with different variations of Labaneh, adding in ingredients like roasted red peppers, olives, and cucumbers for a unique twist. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious and sharing it with the people I love.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe and pass it down to future generations. It is a reminder of the rich culinary heritage that my family has carried with us for years, and a testament to the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.Labaneh has become a staple in our home, a dish that we enjoy on special occasions and everyday meals alike. And as I continue to cook and explore new recipes, I am grateful for the knowledge and inspiration that have been passed down to me through the generations.