Labneh
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Labneh is a thick, creamy strained yogurt that is a staple in Middle Eastern and Levantine cuisine. It is made by straining full-fat yogurt through a cheesecloth or muslin until it reaches a soft, spreadable consistency, similar to cream cheese. It is typically seasoned with salt and often served drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of dried mint or za'atar.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Labneh is high in protein and fat, with a very low carbohydrate content since the straining process removes much of the lactose-rich whey. It is an excellent source of calcium, probiotics, and phosphorus, with a typical serving containing roughly 100-150 calories.
💡 What's interesting
What makes labneh unique is its transformation from a liquid yogurt into a solid, versatile ingredient that can be used as a dip, a spread, or even rolled into balls and preserved in olive oil. Nutritionally, its high protein and probiotic content makes it a gut-friendly food that provides sustained energy without the blood sugar spikes associated with many dairy products.