By Brett Sutton
This recipe has been a cherished part of my collection for years and continues to evolve. I’ve experimented with ingredients like peaches, pomegranate, pomegranate molasses, and even goat curd instead of labneh. Sumac has also made its way in, replacing za’atar on occasion. That’s the beauty of cooking recipes serve as guides for your creativity and personal touch. While this recipe is foolproof and delicious as is, you can easily add your own signature twist to make it uniquely yours!
In a bowl combine the yoghurt, salt, sugar, garlic, lemon zest and juice. Next, line a sieve with muslin, ensuring enough to gather and tie it up for straining. Spoon the yoghurt mixture into the muslin-lined sieve and tie it securely, allowing it to strain. Leave it to drain for a couple of hours, ideally overnight, with a bowl underneath to catch any excess liquid.
Once the time is up, unwrap the muslin to reveal the thickened labneh, which should have a rich, creamy consistency similar to thick cream cheese. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
Preheat your oven to 180*
Remove the cherry tomatoes from the vine and cut the other varieties into wedges or quarters, discarding the cores. Spread them out on a shallow baking tray, then drizzle with olive oil, finely grated garlic, sea salt, and red wine vinegar. Roast the tomatoes for 20 minutes, or until the skins begin to blister and soften. Once done, set them aside to cool slightly.
On a large sharing plate, generously dollop and smear the labneh. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds, then tear half of the basil and mint over the top. Add the roasted tomatoes, followed by a sprinkle of za’atar. Finish by tearing and scattering the remaining mint and basil over the dish.
At The Fine Food Company, we pride ourselves not only on the quality of our products but also on our commitment to ethical practices and sustainability. As a certified B-Corp, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of social and environmental performance. This certification reflects our dedication to balancing profit with purpose, ensuring that our business model contributes positively to our local community and the planet.
With such a vibrant array of ingredients at your fingertips, Spring to Summer offers endless possibilities for your menus. Embrace the season’s freshness and let your creativity flourish as you delight in the flavours of British produce!
