✓ Tested in Faten's kitchen
Crisp grated cucumber folded into thick Lebanese yogurt with dried mint and a clove of crushed garlic — the cool white counterpoint to every grilled plate and the simplest thing the Lebanese kitchen does perfectly.
⏱ 10 min🍽 4 servings📍 Mount Lebanon
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The story
Khiyar bil laban is the Swiss Army knife of the Lebanese table. It appears beside kafta, alongside shish taouk, as a dip for pita at breakfast, and as the default cooling element when the rest of the table is spiced. The secret is draining the cucumber first — Lebanese cooks grate it, salt it, and squeeze out all the liquid so the yogurt stays thick and the cucumber adds crunch without diluting the labneh. Dried mint (not fresh) is the correct seasoning; it has a dustier, more concentrated flavor that survives the acid of the yogurt. Every Lebanese grandmother considers this preparation so obvious that it requires no recipe — and yet the diaspora versions made with watery yogurt and unsalted cucumber are barely recognizable.
Frequently asked questions
What is Khiyar bil Laban — Cucumber Yogurt?
Crisp grated cucumber folded into thick Lebanese yogurt with dried mint and a clove of crushed garlic — the cool white counterpoint to every grilled plate and the simplest thing the Lebanese kitchen does perfectly.
Where is Khiyar bil Laban — Cucumber Yogurt from?
Khiyar bil Laban — Cucumber Yogurt comes from Mount Lebanon. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Khiyar bil Laban — Cucumber Yogurt vegetarian?
As written, Khiyar bil Laban — Cucumber Yogurt contains no meat or fish, so it is suitable for vegetarians. It does include dairy or other animal-derived ingredients, so it is not vegan. Check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.
What can I use instead of dried mint in Khiyar bil Laban — Cucumber Yogurt?
The dried mint called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Khiyar bil Laban — Cucumber Yogurt its traditional character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with Khiyar bil Laban — Cucumber Yogurt?
In a Levantine salads spread, Khiyar bil Laban — Cucumber Yogurt is served as a fresh side to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a mezze spread, and pairs well with warm bread.
Can I make Khiyar bil Laban — Cucumber Yogurt ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
Yes — leftovers keep well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat gently (or bring to room temperature for cold dishes) and taste to adjust seasoning before serving. Dishes with fresh herbs or dressing are freshest the day they are made.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step audio narration (text-to-speech) guides you hands-free. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
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