Middle East cheese guide

Jibneh Arabieh

A general Arabic white cheese used in many everyday dishes.

Cheese story

What is Jibneh Arabieh?

A general Arabic white cheese used in many everyday dishes.

Origin

Arabian Peninsula / Levant, Middle East

Milk

cow, sheep or goat

Board role

Fresh / bright

Cheese profile

Country Middle East
Region Arabian Peninsula / Levant
Milk type cow, sheep or goat
Texture semi-hard brined
Rind none
Ageing fresh to aged
Vegetarian Check the rennet / producer
Milk treatment varies
Flavour profile: mild, salty, milky

Origin, protection and character

Jibneh Arabieh comes from Middle East, especially Arabian Peninsula / Levant. Its character comes from the balance of milk, texture, rind, ageing and local serving traditions.

Protected status

None

Typical ageing

fresh to aged

How to serve Jibneh Arabieh

breakfast, pastries, frying

Good food matches

olives flatbread tea
Serving tip

Take it out of the fridge before serving so the texture softens and the flavour opens up. Softer cheeses usually need less time than hard aged cheeses.

Buying tip

Look for clean aroma, good texture and a style that matches the board: fresh and bright, soft and creamy, hard and nutty, blue and salty, or bold and washed-rind.