Labneh – what is it?

G’dday from the Fernglen Farm team. Today, we’re excited to delve into the world of labneh, a versatile and nutritious dairy product that has been cherished for centuries. Lets us explore what labneh is, its rich history, its versatile applications, and the numerous health benefits it brings to your table.

Labneh: The Essence of Dairy Excellence

Labneh, also known as labna or laban, is a creamy, tangy, and velvety dairy product with Middle Eastern roots. At its core, labneh is simply strained yogurt, but its production and versatility have made it a culinary gem worldwide. Labneh in essence is extra-strained yoghurt which has been salted to taste. Straining the yoghurt, which removes excess whey, results in a thicker, creamier consistency similar to spreadable cream cheese. Labneh is extremely versatile and can be used either sweet or savoury and in all the ways you would use normal cream cheese, it just adds more of a flavour hit and can help to elevate your food experience.

A Brief History of Labneh

Labneh’s origins date back centuries, with roots tracing to Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures. It was created as a way to preserve dairy, making it an ideal staple for nomadic and rural communities. Traditionally, it was made by hanging yoghurt in cheesecloth bags and allowing it to drain, producing a thick and creamy cheese-like product.

Over time, labneh has evolved and adapted to different cuisines, becoming a cherished ingredient in various dishes across the globe. Its rich history is a testament to its enduring popularity and culinary significance.

Versatility in Every Bite

Labneh’s creamy texture and tangy flavor make it a culinary chameleon that can be incorporated into a multitude of dishes. Here are just a few ways you can use labneh:

• Dips and Spreads: Labneh makes a delightful base for dips and spreads. Add herbs, spices, and olive oil for a savoury dip, or sweeten it with honey and fruit for a dessert-like spread.
• Dolloped on Pizza: Swap out the cream cheese and use labneh, dolloped on your pizza for a this is a crowd pleaser!
• Sandwich and Wrap Filling: Spread labneh on bread or wraps as a creamy, tangy alternative to mayo or other spreads.
• Baking: Use labneh in baking recipes to add moisture and a subtle tang to cakes, muffins, and more.
• Marinades: Labneh can be used as a base for marinades, especially for grilled meats and vegetables.

• Cheesecake: Swap the labeneh in place of cream cheese for the best cheesecake experience you will ever have. The tang of the Labneh gives it a much lighter feel and brings the flavours to life more, getting away from that heavy feeling and taste you get from traditional cream cheese.

Health Benefits of Labneh

Labneh isn’t just delicious; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse:

• Protein: Labneh is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Probiotics: Like yogurt, labneh contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health and digestion.
• Calcium: Labneh provides a healthy dose of calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth.
• Low in Lactose: Due to the straining process, labneh is lower in lactose, making it easier to digest for some individuals with lactose intolerance.
• Much lower in fat: Labneh contains about half the amount of fat when compared with traditional cream cheese.

Experience Labneh from Fernglen Farm

At Fernglen Farm, our commitment to quality and sustainability shines through in every product we create. We are proud to offer the finest New Zealand sheep milk-based labneh, crafted with care and dedication to bring you the authentic taste of this dairy delicacy. Our labneh is made from the purest sheep milk, ensuring exceptional creaminess and nutritional value.

We invite you to explore the versatility and health benefits of labneh, and we hope that our labneh finds its way to your table, adding a touch of elegance and nutrition to your meals.

Thank you for joining us on this journey into the world of labneh. To learn more about our sheep milking practices and other dairy products, please visit fernglenfarm.co.nz. Bon appétit!