Lebanese lentils with labneh balls

The fresh yogurt cheese, labneh, is surprisingly easy to make and has a mild, slightly sour taste, which is the perfect foil to spicy food, such as this green lentil dish. A soft, crumbly goats’ cheese, feta or dollops of soft cheese would make good alternatives, too, as would the Spiced Lamb Meatballs on the opposite page if you are looking for a dish to appeal to both vegetarians and meat eaters.