19 Herbed Yogurt Cheese

Makes 1 quart

Ingredients

• 2 quarts plain yogurt
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 2 ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped oregano
• 2 teaspoons chopped thyme
• 2 small chiles, split
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups extra-virgin olive oil

Steps

1. Mix the yogurt, salt, and pepper and drain 3 days under refrigeration in a cheesecloth-lined colander or a cheesecloth or muslin bag set over a bowl.
2. Divide the cheese into 2-ounce portions and place on parchment-lined trays. Allow to drain and dry overnight under refrigeration.
3. Combine the remaining ingredients for a marinade. Add the cheese and marinate 24 hours before serving.

The cheese can be held in the marinade under refrigeration for up to 4 weeks.