Discover how to make Shanklish, a traditional fermented cheese from the Levant. This recipe guides you through the process of creating Shanklish, which is often rolled in aromatic thyme or za'atar, adding a unique flavor to the creamy cheese. Perfectly paired with olive oil and fresh vegetables, Shanklish is a delicious and versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Learn the step-by-step process to make this savory cheese at home!

Ingredients:

- 1 liter (4 cups) whole milk

- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (with live cultures)

- 1/4 cup non-iodized salt

- 1/4 teaspoon rennet (diluted in 1/4 cup water)

- Thyme or za'atar for coating

- Olive oil for serving

- Fresh vegetables (e.g., tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers) for serving

Instructions:

Heat the Milk: Pour the milk into a large pot and heat over medium heat until it reaches 43°C (110°F). Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.

Add Yogurt: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the plain yogurt. Mix well.

Add Rennet: Slowly add the diluted rennet to the milk, stirring gently. Cover the pot and let it sit undisturbed for 1-2 hours, or until the milk has set and you can cut it with a knife.

Cut the Curd: Using a knife, cut the curd into small cubes. Let it rest for 5 minutes.

Cook the Curd: Heat the curds gently, stirring occasionally, until they reach 54°C (130°F). Cook for about 10 minutes, then remove from heat.

Drain the Curd: Line a colander with cheesecloth and pour the curds into it. Let them drain for 1-2 hours, or until most of the whey has drained off.

Season and Form: Transfer the curds to a bowl and mix in the salt. Shape the mixture into small balls or disks.

Coat with Thyme or Za'atar: Roll each cheese ball in thyme or za'atar to coat evenly.

Ferment: Place the coated cheese balls on a tray and let them ferment at room temperature for 2-3 days. Check periodically for desired tanginess.

10. Store: Transfer the fermented cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate. Serve drizzled with olive oil and accompanied by fresh vegetables.

Enjoy your homemade Shanklish as a flavorful appetizer or snack!

Nutritional Values

For the Cheese-Making Process:

Whole Milk (1 liter or 4 cups)

- Calories: ~61

- Protein: ~3.3g

- Fat: ~3.3g

- Carbohydrates: ~4.8g

- Calcium: ~120mg

Benefits:

- Excellent source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D.

- Supports bone health and provides essential nutrients.

Plain Yogurt (1/4 cup, with live cultures)

- Calories: ~59

- Protein: ~10g

- Fat: ~3.3g

- Carbohydrates: ~3.6g

- Calcium: ~150mg

Benefits:

- Provides probiotics that aid in digestion.

- Adds tanginess and helps in setting the cheese.

Non-Iodized Salt (1/4 cup)

- Calories: ~0

- Protein: ~0g

- Fat: ~0g

- Carbohydrates: ~0g

Benefits:

- Essential for flavor and preservation.

- Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Rennet (1/4 teaspoon, diluted in 1/4 cup water)

Nutritional Values (per 100ml of rennet solution):

- Varies based on brand; typically minimal calories and nutrients.

Benefits:

- Enzyme used to coagulate milk, essential for cheese-making.

Thyme or Za'atar (for coating)

- Calories: 101

- Protein: ~5g

- Fat: ~1.7g

- Carbohydrates: ~24g

Benefits:Adds flavor and has antioxidant properties.

Nutritional Values (Za'atar, per 100g):

- Calories: ~300

- Protein: ~10g

- Fat: ~10g

- Carbohydrates: ~50g

Benefits:

- Adds a savory, herbal flavor.

- Contains herbs and spices with potential health benefits.

Olive Oil (for serving)

- Calories: ~884

- Protein: ~0g

- Fat: ~100g

- Carbohydrates: ~0g

Benefits:

- Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.

- Enhances flavor and adds a smooth finish.

Fresh Vegetables (e.g., tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers) (for serving)

- Calories: ~20-30

- Protein: ~1g

- Fat: ~0g

- Carbohydrates: ~4-7g

- Fiber: ~1-2g

Benefits:

- Provides vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

- Adds freshness and nutrients to the dish.

This combination of ingredients will help you create a delicious homemade cheese, complemented by fresh vegetables and a touch of olive oil and herbs for added flavor. Enjoy your cheese-making!