Garlic Labneh

Garlic Labneh is a creamy, tangy delight that elevates any meal. This easy-to-make Middle Eastern dip combines the rich flavors of Greek yogurt with the sharpness of garlic and the freshness of lemon. Perfect for gatherings, it can be served as a dip, a spread, or even as part of a vibrant mezze platter. Its versatility and deliciousness make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This garlic labneh comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Flavorful: The combination of garlic and lemon creates a mouthwatering taste that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Versatile: Serve it with fresh veggies, pita bread, or as a spread on sandwiches; it’s great for any meal.
Healthier Alternative: Made with Greek yogurt, this dip is high in protein and lower in calories compared to many cream-based dips.
Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours!

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect garlic labneh, having the right tools is essential. They help ensure that you achieve the right consistency and flavor without hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Fine mesh sieve
Cheesecloth or thick kitchen roll
Mixing bowl
Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Fine mesh sieve: This tool allows you to strain the yogurt beautifully, ensuring a thick and creamy texture for your labneh.
Cheesecloth or thick kitchen roll: Using these helps to remove excess water from the yogurt, which is key to achieving that perfect consistency.
Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is necessary for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
Spoon: A simple yet vital tool for mixing and serving your garlic labneh.

Ingredients

For the Labneh Base

500 g thick Greek yoghurt
1 tsp flaky salt

For Flavoring

1 garlic clove
1/2 lemon (juiced)
2 tbsp olive oil

For Toppings

Toasted pine nuts
Chopped parsley
Extra virgin olive oil
Sumac (optional)

How to Make Garlic Labneh

Step 1: Prepare the Labneh

Lay cheesecloth or thick kitchen roll in a fine mesh sieve.
Set the sieve over a bowl.
Pour the yogurt and add a good pinch of salt into the cheesecloth in the sieve.
Use a spoon to gently press down on the yogurt to remove excess water.
Continue this process for around 10-15 minutes until thickened.

Step 2: Mix in Flavorings

Once thickened, transfer the labneh into a mixing bowl.
Finely grate the garlic into the labneh.
Squeeze in lemon juice and drizzle with olive oil.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Serve Your Garlic Labneh

Spread the mixture onto a plate evenly.
Top with toasted pine nuts, chopped parsley, and an extra drizzle of olive oil.
If desired, sprinkle some sumac on top for added flavor!

How to Serve Garlic Labneh

Garlic labneh is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a fantastic addition to various dishes, whether served as a dip or a spread.

As a Dip

Serve with fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrots, and bell peppers for a healthy snack.
Pair with pita bread or crackers for a delightful appetizer at gatherings.

On Flatbreads

Spread garlic labneh over warm flatbreads and top with grilled vegetables for a delicious light meal.
Add sliced chicken or beef for an extra protein boost.

With Grilled Meats

Use garlic labneh as a sauce over grilled chicken or lamb to enhance the flavor profile.
It also complements kebabs beautifully, adding creaminess to the dish.

In Salads

Incorporate garlic labneh into salads as a dressing alternative, providing a unique twist on traditional salad flavors.
Mix it with greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing side dish.

How to Perfect Garlic Labneh

Creating garlic labneh that impresses takes just a few tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results:

Choose Quality Yogurt: Use thick Greek yogurt for a creamier texture and richer taste in your labneh.
Proper Draining: Allow enough time for the yogurt to drain; this will result in the perfect thickness.
Fresh Garlic: Always use fresh garlic for the best flavor; pre-minced garlic can alter the taste of your labneh.
Season Generously: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasoning; salt and lemon juice can enhance the overall flavor significantly.
Garnish Creatively: Experiment with toppings like herbs or spices such as sumac to add an attractive finish.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Labneh

Garlic labneh pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

Tabbouleh – A vibrant salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat that adds freshness to your meal.
Hummus – A classic dip made from chickpeas; its creaminess complements garlic labneh perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables provide a warm contrast to the coolness of labneh.
Falafel – These crispy chickpea balls are an excellent pairing; serve them alongside garlic labneh for dipping.
Stuffed Grape Leaves – These savory bites offer delightful flavors that work well with the creaminess of labneh.
Couscous Salad – A fluffy couscous salad mixed with veggies and herbs makes for a great side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Garlic Labneh can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to unsatisfactory results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

Using Thin Yogurt: Always opt for thick Greek yogurt for the best texture. Thin yogurt will result in a watery labneh.
Not Draining Enough: Ensure you allow the labneh to drain for at least 10-15 minutes. If not drained properly, it will remain too runny.
Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning after adding garlic and lemon juice. A little salt can elevate the flavors significantly.
Overmixing: Mix gently when combining ingredients. Overmixing can make the labneh lose its creamy texture.
Neglecting Garnishes: Garnishing with pine nuts, parsley, or sumac adds flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Garlic Labneh in an airtight container.
It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Labneh

Place it in a freezer-safe container.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months, but note that the texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Garlic Labneh

Oven: Preheat to low temperature and warm labneh gently until just heated through without cooking it.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (10-15 seconds) on low power, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pan. Stir frequently to prevent sticking or burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Labneh?

Garlic Labneh is a creamy yogurt dip flavored with garlic and lemon juice, often garnished with herbs and nuts.

How do I make Garlic Labneh thicker?

To achieve a thicker consistency, ensure you drain the yogurt thoroughly using cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve.

Can I customize my Garlic Labneh?

Absolutely! You can add spices like cumin or herbs like dill for different flavor profiles.

What dishes pair well with Garlic Labneh?

Garlic Labneh goes great with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or as a delicious spread on sandwiches.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Labneh is an incredibly versatile dish that brings both flavor and creaminess to your table. Its customizable nature allows you to experiment with various toppings and spices. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!