Teresa's Recipes
Labne
Labne is a delightful Middle Eastern strained yogurt cheese, renowned for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a dip, spread, or even as a main component of a mezze platter. With its roots in ancient Arabic cuisine, labne has been a staple for centuries, showcasing the region's love for fresh, simple ingredients. Paired with warm pita bread, vibrant black olives, and aromatic herbs, it's a delicious way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Greek yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons, plus more for drizzling Olive oil
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh herbs (such as mint, dill, or parsley)
- 1/2 cup, sliced Black olives
- 4 pieces, warmed Pita bread
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Appetizer/Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (4 hours chilling time)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 2g
Instructions
- Place a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth over a large bowl, ensuring there is enough space for the whey to drain.
- Pour the Greek yogurt into the sieve or cheesecloth and sprinkle the salt evenly over the yogurt.
- Cover the yogurt with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the whey to drain, resulting in a thick and creamy labne.
- Once the draining process is complete, gently remove the labne from the sieve or cheesecloth and transfer it to a serving dish.
- Drizzle olive oil generously over the labne, allowing it to pool slightly in the center.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs and sliced black olives on top for a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve the labne with warmed pita bread for dipping, and enjoy the wonderful combination of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.
Tips
- For added flavor, try mixing in spices like za'atar or smoked paprika into the labne before serving.
- You can also serve labne with a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist, perfect for breakfast or brunch.