Yogurt Cheese with Pita and Olives Recipe 🥙
Description:
Indulge in the tangy delight of fresh yogurt “cheese” known as labaneh, competing for attention with hummus and tahini on the classic Israeli mezze platter. Seasoned with sesame seeds, spices, and a drizzle of olive oil, this dish is a flavor-packed sensation perfect for any occasion. Plan ahead and start this recipe the day before serving for optimal results.
- Cook Time: 8 hours and 4 minutes
- Prep Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 16 hours and 4 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups
- Calories: 428.1 per serving
- Fat Content: 30.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 12.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 63.7mg
- Sodium Content: 807.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 23.4g
- Fiber Content: 0.3g
- Sugar Content: 22.9g
- Protein Content: 17.3g
Ingredients:
- 4 cups plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon summer savory
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/8 cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
- Set a strainer over a large bowl.
- Line the strainer with 4 layers of cheesecloth, ensuring 4 inches extend over the sides of the strainer without touching the bottom of the bowl.
- Spoon the yogurt into the prepared strainer.
- Gather the cheesecloth together and fold it over the yogurt.
- Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the liquid to drain out and the yogurt to thicken.
- In a small bowl, combine the sesame seeds, salt, summer savory, cayenne pepper, and ground cumin.
- Open the cheesecloth at the top and use a rubber spatula to transfer the drained yogurt to a bowl.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the yogurt.
- Sprinkle the sesame seed mixture evenly over the yogurt.
- Place the bowl in the center of a serving platter and surround it with pita bread triangles and olives for serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Broil tomatoes until the skins begin to split and blacken in spots, turning occasionally, about 4 minutes. Cool, peel, and cut into wedges.
- Arrange peppers, tomatoes, and eggs on the platter.
- Sprinkle with tuna and capers.
- Mix oil and lemon juice in a small bowl, season to taste with salt and pepper, and drizzle the dressing over the salad.
This yogurt cheese with pita and olives recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for lunch, snacks, or entertaining guests. Enjoy the creamy richness of the yogurt cheese complemented by the crunch of sesame seeds and the boldness of spices, all enhanced by the subtle sweetness of olive oil. Serve it alongside your favorite Mediterranean-inspired dishes for a memorable dining experience!
