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Jibneh Nabulsi

A traditional Palestinian semi-hard white cheese seasoned with aromatic mahlab, resinous mastic, and black nigella seeds. It is boiled in brine to produce a firm texture that holds shape when fried or grilled.

60 minMediumServes 8210 cal/serving

Middle EasternBreakfastStovetopVegetarianLow CarbGluten-FreeNut-FreeSoy-FreeEgg-FreeShellfish-FreeSesame-FreeAlcohol-FreeNightshade-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 1 gal whole milk
  • 1/2 tsp liquid rennet
  • 1/2 cup coarse sea salt
  • 1 tbsp nigella seeds
  • 1/2 tsp mastic gum crystals, crushed
  • 1/2 tsp ground mahlab

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat 1 gal whole milk in a large pot over medium-low heat until it reaches 90 degrees F.

  2. 2

    Mix in 1/2 tsp liquid rennet, remove from heat, cover, and let rest for 45 minutes to set curds.

  3. 3

    Cut curds into small squares, transfer to cheesecloth, and press heavy weights on top for 3 hours to drain whey.

  4. 4

    Slice firm cheese into blocks and toss with 1 tbsp nigella seeds, 1/2 tsp crushed mastic gum crystals, and 1/2 tsp ground mahlab.

  5. 5

    Bring water and 1/2 cup coarse sea salt to a boil, simmer cheese blocks for 5 minutes, then submerge in cold brine to store.

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Questions

What is Jibneh Nabulsi?

A traditional Palestinian semi-hard white cheese seasoned with aromatic mahlab, resinous mastic, and black nigella seeds. It is boiled in brine to produce a firm texture that holds shape when fried or grilled. This reference files it under Middle Eastern breakfast: made on the stovetop, rated medium and about 60 minutes start to finish.

How much time should I plan for Jibneh Nabulsi?

As written, 60 minutes: 30 of prep and 30 of cooking. The longest single stretch is step 3 (3 hours): "Cut curds into small squares, transfer to cheesecloth, and press heavy weights on top for 3 hours to drain whey." That wait sits outside the stated prep and cook times, so plan around it.

Can I make Jibneh Nabulsi dairy-free?

Yes. The dairy in Jibneh Nabulsi is 1 gal whole milk. Swap the milk for unsweetened oat or soy milk. The richness shifts slightly, but the method does not change.

Is Jibneh Nabulsi keto-friendly?

A serving of Jibneh Nabulsi carries 2 g of carbohydrate. Against a strict 20 g keto day that is 10 percent of the budget; against a moderate 100 g low-carb day it is 2 percent.

How long does Jibneh Nabulsi keep?

Refrigerate what is left of Jibneh Nabulsi within two hours and eat it within three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Serve it with

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