Labneh cheese balls are a delicious and versatile snack that you can enjoy on their own or use as a topping for salads, sandwiches, or other dishes. Made from strained yogurt, labneh is a popular Middle Eastern cheese that has a tangy, creamy flavor and a smooth, spreadable texture. When rolled into bite-sized balls and coated in herbs, spices, or other flavorful ingredients, labneh cheese balls make a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Overall, labneh cheese balls are a simple and delicious way to enjoy the unique flavor and texture of labneh cheese. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy appetizer for your next party or a healthy snack to enjoy throughout the day, labneh cheese balls are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. So why not give them a try and see for yourself how delicious and versatile this Middle Eastern cheese can be?
I remember the day I went to a Middle Eastern deli in Brooklyn. I was looking for some exotic food to try and came across labneh cheese balls. The young guy behind the counter handed it over to me, and I couldn’t resist tasting it. The cheese balls were soft, creamy, and had a tangy flavor that I loved.
While I was enjoying the cheese balls, a street performer began to attract a large crowd and caused a disturbance. It was quite a scene, and I had to wait for a while before the commotion settled down.
After a while, I requested the recipe from the deli owner, who agreed to give it to me. The recipe was quite simple and required only a few ingredients. Here’s what it contained: organic Greek yogurt, salt, extra virgin olive oil, dried mint, and Aleppo pepper
I was excited to try making the labneh cheese balls at home and see if they tasted as good as the ones I had at the deli.
Pairing Suggestions
When it comes to serving labneh cheese balls, there are plenty of options for pairing them with other dishes. Here are a few of my favorite suggestions:
- Fresh Vegetables: Labneh cheese balls pair perfectly with fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrot sticks, and cherry tomatoes. The cool, crisp texture of the vegetables complements the creamy, tangy flavor of the cheese.
- Flatbread: Serve your labneh cheese balls with warm, fresh flatbread for a delicious and satisfying meal. The soft, pillowy texture of the bread is the perfect complement to the creamy cheese.
- Grilled Chicken: For a heartier meal, try pairing your labneh cheese balls with grilled chicken. The smoky flavor of the chicken pairs well with the tangy cheese, and the protein from the chicken will help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
These are just a few of the many options for pairing labneh cheese balls with other dishes. Get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures to find the perfect combination for your taste buds!
Ingredients:
- 2 32oz. containers of organic Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 4 cups of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of dried mint
- 2 tablespoons of Aleppo pepper
How to Make Labneh Cheese Balls?
- First, use a big colander and put a cheesecloth or a thin kitchen towel inside. Pour both 32-ounce tubs of plain organic Greek yogurt into the colander and add the salt. Fold the sides of the cloth over the yogurt, covering it completely, then tie it up.
- Next, hang the cheesecloth over a big bowl to let all the liquid drain out for at least two days until there’s no more liquid. You can do this at room temperature or in the fridge. When the yogurt is firm, move it from the cloth to a bowl.
- For the labneh cheese balls, take around two tablespoons of the thickened yogurt and shape it into small balls using your hands. Keep doing this until you’ve made about 50 balls. After that, let the labneh balls sit in the fridge on a platter, lightly covered with a towel or paper towels, to firm up a bit more for another day.
- To give the labneh balls flavor, get all the spices and dried herbs you want to use. Take a ball of labneh and roll it in the spice or herb you like from each separate bowl. I usually roll mine in za’atar, dried mint, and Aleppo pepper.
- Finally, put the labneh balls (spiced or plain) into clean glass jars. Pour in plenty of olive oil to cover all the labneh balls completely. Seal the jars and keep them at room temperature for up to three months.
Nutritional Value of Labneh Cheese Balls
As a health-conscious individual, I always pay attention to the nutritional value of the food I consume. Labneh balls are a delicious and healthy snack that I enjoy making at home. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value of labneh cheese balls:
Protein
Labneh cheese is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in our bodies. A single serving of labneh cheese balls (about 3-4 balls) contains approximately 6 grams of protein.
Calcium
Calcium is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Labneh cheese is a good source of calcium, and a single serving of labneh cheese balls contains approximately 10% of the daily recommended intake of calcium.
Healthy Fats
Labneh cheese is produced from yogurt, which has good fats that are important for keeping your hair, skin, and nails healthy. A single serving of labneh cheese balls contains approximately 6 grams of healthy fats.
Probiotics
Yogurt-based products like labneh cheese contain probiotics, beneficial bacteria that help improve digestion and boost the immune system. Labneh cheese balls are a great way to add probiotics to your diet.
Health Benefits of Labneh Cheese Balls
As a lover of cheese, I am always on the lookout for healthy and delicious cheese options. Labneh balls are one such option that not only tastes great but also offers several health benefits.
Firstly, labneh cheese is made from strained yogurt, which means it is lower in fat than regular cheese. This makes it a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake or trying to maintain a healthy weight.
Additionally, labneh cheese is rich in protein, which is crucial for muscle build and repair. It also contains calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Another benefit of labneh cheese balls is that they are often flavored with herbs and spices, which can provide additional health benefits. For example, garlic and turmeric are both known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while dill can aid in digestion.
Lastly, these balls are a great option for those who are lactose intolerant. Since the yogurt used to make labneh is fermented, it contains less lactose than regular cheese, making it easier to digest.
Overall, they are a delicious and healthy option for cheese lovers. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or as part of a meal, they are sure to satisfy your taste buds while also providing several health benefits.
Storing Labneh Cheese Balls
Once you have made your delicious labneh cheese balls, you’ll want to store them properly to ensure they stay fresh and tasty. Here are some tips for storing labneh cheese balls:
- Refrigerate: Labneh should be stored in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freeze: If you want to store them for longer than a week, you can freeze them. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in the freezer. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
- Thawing: To thaw frozen labneh cheese balls, remove them from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator. Allow them to thaw overnight. Do not thaw them at room temperature, as this can cause them to spoil.
- Serving: When you’re ready to serve them, remove them from the refrigerator or freezer and allow them to come to room temperature before serving. This will ensure that they are at their best and most flavorful.
Conclusion
Labneh cheese balls are a delicious and versatile addition to any meal or snack. With their creamy texture and tangy flavor, they can be enjoyed on their own or used as a topping for salads, sandwiches, and more.
One of the best things about labneh cheese balls is their simplicity. They require just a few ingredients and are easy to make, even for those with limited cooking experience. Plus, they can be customized to suit your tastes by adding herbs, spices, or other flavorings.
Another great thing about labneh cheese balls is their nutritional value. They are high in protein and healthy fats, making them a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.
Overall, I highly recommend giving labneh cheese balls a try. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a tasty addition to your next meal, they are sure to satisfy.
The perfect pairing for labneh cheese balls is definitely flatbread.
Here is a great recipe for it (click the image below):
