Creamy Israeli Labneh with Za'atar Oil Drizzle
Labneh is a tangy and creamy cheese made from strained yogurt. Paired with fragrant za'atar oil, it's a savory delight that captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Preparing the Labneh
- 1
Mix yogurt and salt
Mix the yogurt and salt in a bowl.
- 2
Prepare sieve and cheesecloth
Line a sieve with a cheesecloth and place over a large bowl.
Tip: Use a sturdy cheesecloth to prevent any yogurt loss during straining.
- 3
Strain yogurt
Pour the yogurt mixture into the cheesecloth, gather the edges and tie up. Hang over the bowl to drain in the fridge for 10-12 hours.
Tip: Ensure that the yogurt is fully strained before using to achieve the right texture.
Making the Za'atar Oil
- 1
Warm olive oil
Gently warm the olive oil in a small saucepan. Don't let it smoke.
- 2
Infuse za'atar
Stir in the za'atar spice mix and remove from heat to infuse.
- 3
Cool the oil
Let the oil cool completely before using.
How to Make Creamy Israeli Labneh with Za'atar Oil Drizzle
Total time: 16 h · Yields 6 servings
- 1
Straining the Yogurt
Allow the yogurt to hang and drain for 12 hours in the fridge until it reaches a thick, cream-cheese-like consistency.
- 2
Infusing the Oil
Heat the oil gently with za'atar, and let it sit covered until it reaches room temperature.
- 3
Combining
Once the labneh is ready, transfer it to a serving dish, and create a shallow well in the center. Pour the za'atar oil over the top and garnish.
Chef's Tips
Frequently asked questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Store labneh in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prepare both the labneh and za'atar oil a day in advance.
What can I use as a substitute for za'atar?
A mix of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac can be used to mimic za'atar.
Is it possible to use low-fat yogurt?
Yes, but whole-milk yogurt yields the creamiest labneh.
Can I add other spices to the za'atar oil?
Absolutely! Feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for extra flair.
You might also love
Browse all recipes
Classic Bistro Steak Frites with Tarragon Butter
Zesty Lemongrass Garlic Noodles
Creamy Tuscan Ravioli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Slow-Braised Short Rib Ragu with Pappardelle
Roasted Carrots with Whipped Feta and Za'atar Oil
Smoked Salmon & Whipped Goat Cheese Tartine
Explore more from TastyFood
Looking for something different? Browse by category.