Indulge in the velvety smoothness of Israeli labneh, a luxurious strained yogurt cheese. Served with a drizzle of golden olive oil and a sprinkle of fragrant herbs, this versatile delight is perfect as a spread or dip. Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite.

Here's a simple recipe to make Labneh at home:

Ingredients:

 - 32 oz (about 1 kg) full-fat plain yogurt

 - 1 teaspoon salt

 - Olive oil, for serving

 - Fresh herbs (such as mint, parsley, or dill), chopped, for serving

Instructions:

Strain the Yogurt:

1- Line a large sieve or colander with cheesecloth and place it over a bowl.

2- Mix the yogurt with salt and pour it into the cheesecloth-lined sieve.

3- Cover the yogurt with the edges of the cheesecloth and place it in the refrigerator to strain for 24 to 48 hours, depending on how thick you want the labneh. The longer you strain it, the thicker it will become.

Shape the Labneh:

1- Once the labneh has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the refrigerator.

2- Unwrap the cheesecloth and gently form the labneh into small balls or a log shape.

Serve:

1- Place the labneh on a serving dish.

2- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs.

3- Serve with pita bread, crackers, or vegetables.

Enjoy the creamy goodness of homemade labneh, infused with the flavors of olive oil and herbs!

Nutritional Values :

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients in the labneh recipe:

1. 32 oz (about 1 kg) full-fat plain yogurt

  - Calories: 620 (approximately 62 calories per 100g)

  - Fat: 32g

  - Carbohydrates: 40g

  - Protein: 34g

  - Benefits: Rich in protein and calcium; contains probiotics that support digestive health; provides vitamins B2 and B12.

2. 1 teaspoon salt

  - Calories: 0

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Benefits: Enhances flavor; essential for electrolyte balance.

3. Olive oil, for serving (1 tablespoon)

  - Calories: 120

  - Fat: 14g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Benefits: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats; rich in antioxidants like vitamin E.

4. Fresh herbs (such as mint, parsley, or dill), chopped, for serving (1 tablespoon)

  - Calories: 1 (per tablespoon)

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K; adds flavor and nutrients.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients used.