Description
This recipe guides you through making thick strained yogurt, also known as Greek yogurt or labneh, by simply straining plain whole milk yogurt using cheesecloth. The process removes excess whey, resulting in a creamy, rich yogurt perfect for use as a spread, dip, or substitute for sour cream. The method is easy, requires no cooking, and allows customization for savory or sweet variations.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 4 cups plain whole milk yogurt (unsweetened and unflavored)
- Cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel
Equipment
- Fine mesh strainer
- Large bowl
Instructions
- Prepare the strainer: Place a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl. Line the strainer with a double layer of cheesecloth or a clean, thin kitchen towel to catch the yogurt solids while allowing whey to drain.
- Add the yogurt: Pour the plain whole milk yogurt into the lined strainer. Gather the edges of the cloth and fold them over the yogurt to cover completely, preventing contamination during straining.
- Strain in the refrigerator: Transfer the entire setup to the refrigerator. Let the yogurt strain for 4 to 12 hours depending on desired thickness. For a Greek-style consistency, strain about 4 hours; for a denser labneh style, strain 8 to 12 hours.
- Finish and store: Once the yogurt has thickened to your liking, remove from the fridge. Transfer the thickened yogurt to a clean container. Discard the separated whey or save it for use in smoothies or baking.
Notes
- Start with high-quality, full-fat yogurt for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- After straining, add a pinch of salt for a savory yogurt or honey and vanilla for a sweet version.
- Strained yogurt works wonderfully as a spread, dip base, or to substitute sour cream in recipes.
- The whey saved from straining can be used in smoothies, soups, or baking for added nutrients.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern / Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg