Labneh, also known as strained yogurt, has been a staple in Turkish cuisine for centuries. This creamy and tangy spread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a dip, topping, or even as a standalone dish. Made from just two simple ingredients, labneh is not only delicious but also a healthy addition to any meal. In this article, we will take a closer look at the traditional Turkish labneh recipe and learn how to make it at home. Get ready to elevate your cooking skills and impress your taste buds with this flavorful and nutritious dish.
Main Ingredients: Yogurt, Salt, Bread, Cucumber, Zaatar, Labneh
Start your day off right with this refreshing and nutritious sandwich. Spread a generous amount of labneh on whole grain bread and top with sliced cucumber, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of za'atar. It's the perfect way to start your morning.
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Labneh Za'atar Toast
Main Ingredients: Labneh, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Bread
This simple yet flavorful toast is a great option for a quick and easy breakfast or snack. Spread labneh on whole grain toast and sprinkle with za'atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend made of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. Top with your favorite veggies or even a fried egg for a more filling meal.
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Labneh
Main Ingredients: Non Fat Greek Yogurt, Greek Yogurt, Sea Salt, Fresh
Of course, we can't forget the classic way to enjoy labneh - simply spread it on toast or crackers and top with your favorite toppings. Try it with honey and walnuts for a sweet and crunchy treat, or with olive oil and black pepper for a savory option.
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Red Beet Labneh
Main Ingredients: Beets, Olive Oil, Labneh, Sauce
This vibrant and flavorful labneh will add a pop of color to any dish. Simply blend cooked beets with labneh and a splash of lemon juice for a delicious and nutritious spread. Use it as a dip for veggies or spread it on toast for a colorful breakfast option.
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Grilled Vegetable Meze with Labneh
Main Ingredients: Vegetables, Olives, Pita Chips, Labneh, Olive Oil
This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for a summer BBQ or a light lunch. Grill your favorite veggies and serve them with a side of labneh for dipping. The creamy and tangy labneh pairs perfectly with the smoky grilled vegetables.
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LABNEH WITH BEETROOT SALAD
Main Ingredients: Plain Yogurt, Salt, Labneh, Garlic, Beetroots, Medium
Another great way to incorporate beets into your diet, this refreshing salad is perfect for hot summer days. Combine sliced beets, labneh, mint, and a drizzle of olive oil for a simple and delicious side dish.
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Labneh and Tomato Sourdough Toasts
Main Ingredients: Sourdough Bread, Labneh, Avocado, Cherry Tomatoes, Mini
Upgrade your avocado toast game with this flavorful twist. Spread labneh on sourdough toast and top with sliced tomatoes, basil, and a sprinkle of sea salt. It's a simple yet satisfying breakfast or snack option.
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Roasted Baby Beets with Labneh
Main Ingredients: Baby Beets, Labneh, Fresh Mint Leaves, Chopped Fresh
Roasting beets brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious flavor to this dish. Simply roast baby beets and serve them with a dollop of labneh and a sprinkle of fresh dill for a tasty and colorful side dish.
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Labneh Chicken Salad in Melon
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Apples, Grapes, Walnuts, Labneh, Greek
This unique and refreshing dish is perfect for a summer picnic or gathering. Scoop out the center of a melon and fill it with a chicken salad made with labneh, grapes, and pecans. It's a fun and creative way to enjoy labneh.
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Labneh with Garlic and Herbs
Main Ingredients: Labneh, Lemon Juice, Garlic, Fresh Mint Leaves, Fresh
Add some extra flavor to your labneh by mixing in minced garlic, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon juice. It's perfect for spreading on sandwiches or using as a dip for veggies.
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Gaby’s Roasted Beets and Labneh
Main Ingredients: Beets, Shallots, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Red Pepper
This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a vegetarian main course or a side dish for a meat-based meal. Roast beets and serve them with a side of labneh topped with toasted pistachios and fresh herbs.
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Za'atar Chicken Burgers with Labneh
Main Ingredients: Fresh Thyme, Sumac, Toasted Sesame Seeds, Cumin, Sea
Take your burger game to the next level with these flavorful chicken burgers. Mix ground chicken with za'atar, garlic, and chopped onion and grill to perfection. Serve on a bun with a generous dollop of labneh for a tasty and unique burger experience.
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Labneh Green Goddess
Main Ingredients: Labneh, Lemon, Flat Leaf Parsley, Tarragon, Basil
This creamy and tangy dressing is perfect for salads, grain bowls, or as a dip for veggies. Simply blend labneh with avocado, lemon juice, fresh herbs, and a splash of water until smooth and creamy. It's a healthier alternative to traditional creamy dressings.
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Labneh Grilled Cheese
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Wheat Bread, White Cheddar, Shaved Parmesan
Take your grilled cheese game to the next level with this delicious and creamy twist. Spread labneh on whole grain bread, top with your favorite cheese, and grill until melted and crispy. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.
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Labneh Panna Cotta
Main Ingredients: Milk, Honey, Gelatin, Cold Water, Vanilla Extract
Who says labneh can only be used in savory dishes? This creamy and delicious dessert is a great way to use up any leftover labneh. Simply mix labneh with cream, sugar, and gelatin and chill until set. Top with fresh fruit or a drizzle of honey for a sweet and tangy treat.
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Mediterranean Pork Souvlaki with Labneh Tzatziki
Main Ingredients: Plain Greek Yogurt, Fresh Lemon Juice, Ground Cumin
This flavorful and hearty dish is perfect for a summer BBQ or a weeknight dinner. Marinate pork in a mixture of Mediterranean spices and grill to perfection. Serve with a side of labneh tzatziki made with labneh, cucumber, dill, and lemon juice.
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Labneh And Roasted Carrots Grain Bowl
Main Ingredients: Farro, Carrots, Spring Onions, Labneh, Sea Salt
This nutritious and filling grain bowl is perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner option. Roast carrots and mix them with your favorite grain, such as quinoa or farro. Top with a dollop of labneh and a sprinkle of toasted almonds for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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Za'atar Roasted Tomato Crostini with Labneh
Main Ingredients: Small Tomatoes, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Kosher Salt
This simple yet delicious appetizer is perfect for any gathering or party. Top crostini with roasted tomatoes and a dollop of labneh. Sprinkle with za'atar and fresh parsley for a flavorful and colorful bite.
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Maple Tahini Cupcakes With Labneh Frosting
Main Ingredients: Flour, Kosher Salt, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Canela
Yes, you read that right - labneh can even be used in desserts! These moist and delicious cupcakes are made with tahini, maple syrup, and labneh for a unique and flavorful frosting. They're the perfect sweet treat for any occasion.
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Labneh Dip with Zaatar Pistachio Mint Olive Topping
Main Ingredients: Labneh, Salt, Fresh Mint Leaves, Pistachios, Pitted
This dip is a flavor explosion in your mouth. The creamy and tangy labneh pairs perfectly with the crunchy and flavorful topping made with za'atar, pistachios, mint, and olives. Serve with pita chips or veggies for a delicious and addictive dip.
Making the Perfect Labneh
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon of salt
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt and salt until well combined.
2. Line a colander with a double layer of cheesecloth and place it over a bowl.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture onto the cheesecloth, making sure it is evenly spread.
4. Gather the edges of the cheesecloth and tie them together, creating a pouch.
5. Hang the pouch over the bowl with a wooden spoon or a clip attached to the top of the colander.
6. Let the yogurt drain for at least 8 hours, or overnight, in the refrigerator.
7. Once the yogurt has thickened and strained, remove it from the cheesecloth and place it in a bowl.
8. Your labneh is now ready to be enjoyed or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
The Health Benefits of Labneh
Labneh is not only delicious but also packed with numerous health benefits. It is a great source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, making it a perfect option for vegetarians and those looking to improve their gut health. The straining process also removes excess water and lactose, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance. Additionally, labneh is rich in healthy fats, promoting heart health and aiding in weight management. So not only is this traditional Turkish dish tasty, but it is also a nutritious addition to your diet.
Ways to Enjoy Labneh
There are endless ways to enjoy labneh, making it a versatile and must-try ingredient in your kitchen. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
As a Dip:
- Mix in some herbs and spices, such as dill and garlic, for a flavorful dip to pair with veggies or pita bread.
- Add some freshly chopped cucumbers and cherry tomatoes to the labneh for a refreshing and healthy dip.
As a Topping:
- Spread it on toast or crackers and top with your favorite fruits or jam for a quick and easy breakfast.
- Use it as a substitute for sour cream on top of tacos or chili for a healthier twist.
As a Standalone Dish:
- Drizzle some olive oil and sprinkle some za'atar on top of the labneh for a flavorful and satisfying snack.
- Make a sandwich with pita bread, falafel, and a generous spread of labneh for a delicious and filling meal.
Now that you know how to make traditional Turkish labneh at home and the many ways to enjoy it, it's time to get creative in the kitchen. With its simple preparation and health benefits, labneh is a must-try dish for all food lovers. So why not give it a try and add a little taste of Turkey to your next meal?
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