Recipes /

Labneh with Za’atar Sprinkle

  • Vegetarian

Bring the authentic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine to your home kitchen with our Labneh with Za’atar. The term “za’atar” refers to both the spice blend used as a condiment and a wild herb native to the Levant region. This spice blend has a plentiful amount of varieties throughout the Middle East and North Africa, and recipes are often closely guarded family secrets and points of national pride. In Jordan, za’atar tends to use more sumac, in Lebanon, it often contains orange zest, and in Israel, you’ll sometimes find dill added.

Our labneh recipe features the Za’atar Spice Blend, a fragrant mix of herbs and spices including sumac, thyme, Mediterranean oregano, sesame seeds, and salt that delivers a slightly tart and herbaceous flavor. This vegetarian dip is full of flavor and pairs perfectly with pita chips, grilled meats, or even as a tangy sandwich spread. Prepare this easy no-cook meal ahead of time to be ready for your hungry guests or family.

Curious Spoon Culinary Team
Difficulty:
Moderate
Total Time:
12 minutes

Ingredients

Yield 1-1/2 cups
  • 2 cups Plain Yogurt
  • 1/2 tsp. Kosher Salt
  • 1-1/2 tsp. Curious Spoon Za’atar Spice Blend
  • 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
  • Pita Chips, for serving

From the Kitchen

  • Cheesecloth, Muslin, or Thin Kitchen Towel
  • Strainer
  • Large bowl

Notes from the Chef:

Try using this as a spread for sandwiches to give it a tangy flavor!

Make it a meal:
Serve this with grilled meats.
Pairs well with:
Pair with a nice merlot.
Featured Product(s)
Directions:
  1. 1

    Place cheesecloth, muslin, or thin kitchen cloth over strainer and pour yogurt into cloth. Add salt and Curious Spoon Za'atar Spice Blend and stir lightly with spoon.

  2. 2

    Fold corners of cloth into center and tie together with string. Place heavy plate on cloth bag and put strainer in larger bowl to capture draining liquid. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours. Mixture can be left for up to 3 days.

  3. 3

    Remove mixture from bowl, discarding excess liquid. Unwrap and transfer labneh to bowl. Stir until smooth.

  4. 4

    Drizzle with olive oil and Curious Spoon Za'atar Spice Blend and serve with pita chips.