What Is Labneh Cheese?
Labneh, frequently used in Mediterranean cuisine, is made from fermented milk (plain yogurt) strained for several hours to remove all the moisture. Its consistency is similar to whipped cream cheese. Labneh can be consumed raw or cooked into dishes. It’s also packed with protein and gut-healthy probiotics.
How to Make Labneh
Many grocery stores now carry labneh in the dairy section, but it’s simple to make at home. All you need is whole milk yogurt (cow’s milk is more traditional, but goat’s milk is another option) and a little salt. No need to use Greek yogurt here; plain, unsweetened whole milk yogurt will do the trick. That’s it! For more detailed instructions, here’s a labneh recipe from our sister site, Cooking Light.
Labneh Origin
The word labneh is derived from “laban,” which means white or milk. The birthplace of labneh isn’t entirely clear. Labneh cheese (aka labneh for short) became most well-known in Levant (a region that includes modern-day Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Jordan, and Israel). It’s been a fundamental ingredient in this region’s cuisine for thousands of years. Historically, countries with hot climates, such as Egypt, didn’t have the means to preserve fresh milk, making it curdle into yogurt and then forming a soft cheese.
Substitutes for Labneh
With the texture of cream cheese, it’s a pretty safe bet you could use it interchangeably with labneh. Smear it on your morning bagel, or mix it with your cheesecake recipe for a tangy twist. Similarly to how you could substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, you could also substitute labneh.
Our Favorite Recipes Using Labneh
According to a post by Suzy Karadsheh on The Mediterranean Dish, “good labneh is as non-negotiable as good hummus” in Middle Eastern homes. The traditional way to enjoy labneh is by simply spreading it on a plate along with a drizzle of quality olive oil ($13, World Market) and a sprinkle of Za’atar spice (a traditional Middle Eastern savory spice blend). Serve with veggies and pita chips for an easy snack. You can also use labneh as a topping for your favorite grilled meats, add it to your charcuterie board, or try it in our delicious vegetarian lasagna recipe. The options are virtually endless.
