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Homemade Labneh (2 Ingredient High Protein Strained Yogurt)
Labneh is a thickened strained yogurt made with only 2 ingredients – plain Greek yogurt and salt. It’s easy, delicious and high in protein, and can be used both as a spread or dip.
Equipment
- 1 wooden spatula or spoon
- 2 mixing bowls one large and one small
Ingredients
- 2 cups full fat Greek yogurt (see Note 1)
- ½ tsp salt, or more to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and salt
- Spoon the mixture into the centre of a cheesecloth
- Tie the ends of the cheesecloth over a wooden spatula or spoon; ensure it’s tied tightly so the whey separates faster (tie all 4 corners if necessary so you have a tight ball)
- Place the spatula over a large bowl where the ends of the spatula are resting on the sides of the bowl but the cheesecloth does not touch the bottom of the bowl (see Note 2)
- Place the bowl in the refrigerator for at least 12 but ideally 24 hours to allow the whey to separate; the result will be a smooth, tangy spread the texture of cream cheese
- Transfer to a container with a lid and store in the fridge for up to two weeks; you can use it as a spread, for dips, or as a higher protein substitute anywhere you would use cream cheese, including in desserts (see Note 3)
Notes
Note 1: I prefer to use full fat Greek yogurt (4% fat or more) in this recipe because of its tangy flavour and protein content. However, any full fat plain yogurt will work great here. You can even use low fat or fat free yogurt, but the final result won’t be as rich.
Note 2: You want around 1-2 inches of space between the cheesecloth and the bowl so that the cheesecloth ball does not end up sitting in the whey as it drains; you can also use a jug or pitcher if you don’t have a bowl deep enough.
Note 3: Labneh is extremely versatile and can be used in many ways. I love to use it as a dip for my Oven Roasted Vegetable and Halloumi Skewers, but it can also be used as a spread similar to cream cheese or as a dip. You can even use it as a substitute for cream cheese in desserts for a higher protein option. Because it’s a little tangier than cream cheese, you may prefer to add a little extra sugar.
Nutrition Facts are calculated automatically and may be inaccurate.
Nutrition
Calories: 129kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 22gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.03gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 11mgSodium: 666mgPotassium: 298mgSugar: 7gVitamin A: 8IUCalcium: 235mgIron: 0.2mg
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