Labneh Balls Recipe – Lebanese Special
Labneh Balls are a Middle Eastern delicacy made from strained yogurt that is rolled into small balls and preserved in olive oil. These creamy, tangy, and rich cheese-like balls are perfect for spreading on bread, serving with olives, or adding to mezze platters. With a smooth texture and slightly tart flavor, labneh balls are not only delicious but also nutritious, packed with probiotics and healthy fats.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Total Time20 min
For the Labneh:
- 2 cups full-fat plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Rolling & Storage:
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon za’atar (optional, for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon sumac (optional, for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon crushed dried mint (optional, for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for spice)
Strain the Yogurt:
Place a cheesecloth or muslin cloth over a fine-mesh sieve set on top of a bowl.
Mix the yogurt with salt and pour it into the cloth.
Gather the edges, tie them, and place a weight on top to help drain the liquid.
Refrigerate and let it strain for 24 to 48 hours—longer for a thicker consistency.
Shape the Labneh Balls:
Once the yogurt is thick and spreadable, scoop out small portions and roll them into smooth balls using your hands.
If the labneh is still too soft, refrigerate it for an additional few hours before rolling.
Coat the Labneh Balls (Optional):
Roll each ball in za’atar, sumac, dried mint, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Store in Olive Oil:
Place the labneh balls in a sterilized glass jar.
Pour extra virgin olive oil over them until fully submerged.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Serve:
Serve the labneh balls with warm pita bread, olives, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
Drizzle with extra olive oil for a richer taste.
Recipe Notes:
For extra tanginess, use homemade yogurt or allow it to strain for longer.
If you prefer a firmer texture, strain for 48 hours or more.
Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor and preservation.
Labneh balls pair well with fresh herbs, nuts, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory twist.
