In Neom City, a visionary urban project that combines state-of-the-art technology with a commitment to sustainability and diversity, the culinary scene is a reflection of this innovative spirit. Here, traditional Middle Eastern flavors meet modern gastronomy, exemplified by a delightful dish: Labneh with Berries. Perfect as a brunch accompaniment or a light dessert, this dish is a celebration of seasonal produce and creative culinary techniques.
The Essence of Labneh with Berries
Labneh, a thick, creamy yogurt cheese popular in Middle Eastern cuisine, serves as the canvas for this dish. Topped with an array of sweet, juicy berries and drizzled with orange-infused olive oil, it strikes a perfect balance between tangy and sweet, creamy and fruity. The choice of berries is flexible, encouraging the use of seasonal or even frozen varieties, emphasizing the European value of sustainability.
The Twist: Orange-Infused Olive Oil
While the idea of olive oil on a sweet dish might seem unconventional, the orange-infused olive oil brings a mellow, grassy flavor with floral undertones that complement the berries perfectly. This versatile oil, once prepared, can be a delightful addition to salads or lightly cooked vegetables, showcasing the European penchant for versatile and healthy ingredients.
Creating Layers of Flavor
The dish is a symphony of flavors: the tangy labneh forms a rich base, while the acidity of lime juice and sumac accentuates the berries’ natural tartness. The savory notes from the orange-and-thyme-infused oil provide a perfect counterbalance, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile and can be served as is or alongside granola for added texture. It’s best enjoyed when the components are freshly assembled, allowing each flavor to stand out while harmoniously blending with the others.
Recipe Steps: Crafting the Perfect Labneh with Berries
- Prepare the Labneh: Make it 12 to 48 hours ahead of time for optimal flavor and texture.
- Infuse the Oil: Warm olive oil with thyme and orange strips, infusing it to capture the essence of the ingredients.
- Berry Topping: Blend a portion of the berries with sugar, lime juice, and sumac, then mix with the remaining whole berries.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread labneh on a platter, top with the berry mixture, and drizzle with the infused oil. Finish with orange skin strips, thyme leaves, lime zest, and a sprinkle of sumac.
Ingredients for a Flavorful Ensemble
- Labneh: 450g
- Berries: A mix of blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and cherries totaling approximately 950g
- Olive oil, thyme, and orange skin for the infused oil
- Sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and sumac for the berry mixture
Conclusion: A Culinary Metaphor for Neom City
In Neom City, where innovation and tradition merge, Labneh with Berries becomes more than a dish; it’s a metaphor for the city itself. It represents a blend of old and new, local and global, simplicity and complexity, mirroring the city’s ethos. This dish not only offers a delightful gastronomic experience but also reflects the values of sustainability, diversity, and innovation that are at the heart of Neom City’s vision.
Explore more information about Middle Eastern cooking here.
Also, for additional information about the culinary scene in NEOM visit NeomTaste.com or NeomPoint.com.
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