Labneh Wa Za Atar Spiced Yogurt Cheese
Transform your everyday yogurt into a creamy, tangy delight with this Labneh Wa Za'atar Spiced Yogurt Cheese recipe. This Middle Eastern-inspired dish is crafted by straining full-fat plain yogurt, resulting in a luxurious spread with a velvety texture and tangy flavor. Topped with the aromatic za'atar spice blend—a mix of earthy herbs, nutty sesame seeds, and tart sumac—and a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, this dish is bursting with bold, authentic flavors. Perfect as a dip or spread, it pairs beautifully with warm pita bread or crunchy fresh vegetables. With minimal prep time and just a bit of patience, you’ll create a versatile appetizer or snack that's as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you're hosting a gathering or craving something unique, this easy labneh recipe delivers a taste of the Middle East straight to your table. Keywords: labneh recipe, za'atar spice, Middle Eastern yogurt cheese, homemade spreads, party appetizers.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 600 g Full-fat plain yogurt
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- 2 tbsp Za'atar spice blend
- 3 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 serving Pita bread or fresh vegetables (optional, for serving)
Instructions
In a mixing bowl, combine the full-fat plain yogurt and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure the salt is evenly incorporated.
Line a fine-mesh strainer with a double layer of cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel. Place the strainer over a bowl to catch the excess liquid (whey).
Pour the salted yogurt into the cheesecloth-lined strainer. Gather the edges of the cheesecloth and tie them together securely to form a pouch.
Refrigerate the setup for 24-48 hours. The longer the yogurt strains, the thicker and creamier the labneh will become.
After straining, transfer the labneh to a serving dish. Smooth the surface with the back of a spoon.
Sprinkle the za'atar spice blend evenly across the top of the labneh.
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil generously over the za’atar for a glossy finish.
Serve immediately with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
935 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 65.8 g | 84% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.7 g | 94% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 76 mg | 25% | |
| Sodium | 1204 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 66.9 g | 24% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.5 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 28.9 g | ||
| Protein | 29.3 g | 59% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 805 mg | 62% | |
| Iron | 5.0 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 1078 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
