National Dish Syria: Shanklish (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Shanklish, Syria’s beloved fermented cheese! Made from yoghurt-fermented milk and rolled in fragrant herbs and spices, these tangy little cheese balls are a staple of the mezze table. Drizzled with olive oil and scooped up with warm flatbread and crisp vegetables, Shanklish delivers a taste experience you will not forget in a hurry.
About Shanklish
Shanklish is a savoury cheese made in many Syrian households. It stands out for its tangy flavour and the unique texture that develops through fermentation. Making Shanklish involves flavoursome yoghurt enriched with fresh ingredients such as coriander, mint or oregano. The cheese is typically served alongside flatbread and fresh vegetables, allowing the flavours to complement one another perfectly.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 300g yoghurt-fermented milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh coriander, chopped
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Flatbread, to serve
Shopping for the ingredients
To make Shanklish you will need a selection of fresh ingredients, all of which can be found in any well-stocked supermarket or a Middle Eastern grocery. Take care to choose high-quality yoghurt-fermented milk, as it has a major influence on the flavour of the cheese. Spices such as coriander and cumin come in various grades, so pick a good one to coax out the fullest aroma. Buy fresh herbs for the best possible flavour experience.
Preparing the dish
Before you start making your Shanklish, it is important to have all the ingredients ready. Measure out the quantities precisely and prepare the fresh herbs by washing and chopping them thoroughly. Make sure the milk is free of any lumps or impurities to guarantee a smooth consistency. This careful preparation is essential for drawing the very best flavour out of your Shanklish.
Step-by-step instructions
- Mix the yoghurt-fermented milk with the salt, coriander and cumin in a bowl.
- Add the chopped herbs and combine everything well.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on a kitchen towel to draw out excess liquid.
- Cover the balls and leave them to rest in a cool room for 24 hours.
- After the resting time, drizzle the balls with olive oil and serve with flatbread and vegetables.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
To make Shanklish gluten-free, swap regular flatbread for a gluten-free bread or use vegetables such as cucumber or peppers as dippers instead. For a lactose-free version, use lactose-free yoghurt-fermented milk, which delivers an equally excellent consistency. The cheese remains just as delicious and enjoyable without the traditional ingredient. These adjustments make Shanklish a versatile dish that can accommodate a range of dietary needs.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
If you are looking for a vegan option, try a plant-based yoghurt alternative, available in most health food shops. Spices and herbs can be adjusted as you like to achieve an intense flavour. While the result is a variation on the classic Shanklish, the pleasure remains intact thanks to the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients. That way vegans too can enjoy these delicious flavours.
More tips and tricks
To coax the fullest aroma out of your Shanklish, lightly toast the spices before using them. This intensifies the flavours and gives your dish extra depth. Another idea is to roll the Shanklish balls in various nuts or seeds, which is rewarding both visually and on the palate. Let your creativity run free and create your own personal version of the recipe!
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Shanklish is a wonderfully flexible dish that is easy to tailor to personal preference. Experiment with different herbs and spices to achieve the flavour you are after. Adding a little sheep’s cheese, for example, brings a creamier texture. You can also influence the consistency by using more or less liquid to shape the result to your own taste.
Ingredient substitutions
If you cannot find yoghurt-fermented milk, you can fall back on fresh mozzarella or ricotta, both of which carry the flavours well. For extra heat, add chilli powder or freshly chopped chillies. If fresh herbs are not to hand, dried alternatives work too, though the quantity should be adjusted as their flavour is more concentrated. Adjustments like these can make your Shanklish even more rewarding — much like the creamy yoghurt sauce in Fatteh Al Laban, it invites experimentation.
Drink pairing ideas
Aromatic teas or fresh fruit juices make a perfect accompaniment to Shanklish, striking just the right balance between sweet and savoury. Try mint tea or blackberry juice, both of which pair beautifully with the cheese’s tangy notes. Sparkling mineral water with slices of lemon is another refreshing choice that underlines the flavours of the food. Experiment with different drinks to find your ideal combination.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays a big part in serving Shanklish well. Arrange the cheese balls on a large platter decorated with fresh vegetables and bread. Use small bowls of olive oil and herbs to serve as dips. Colourful vegetables and edible flowers can elevate the dish further and create an appealing visual experience. A beautifully laid table like this is sure to impress your guests!
A bit of history
Shanklish has its roots in traditional Syrian cuisine and has been a popular dish for many generations. It is often served as part of a mezze, a selection of small dishes shared at the table alongside classics such as Hummus and Ful Medames. The cheese-making method is simple, yet the combination of flavours is unique and sits beautifully within Syrian food culture. This culinary tradition reflects the versatility and richness of Syrian gastronomy and enriches any gathering around the table.
More recipe ideas
- Fattoush: a refreshing salad with crisp bread and mixed vegetables.
- Kibbeh: traditional Syrian croquettes made from bulgur and meat.
- Tabbouleh: a classic parsley salad for a fresh side dish.
- Warak Enab: tender stuffed vine leaves, a mezze favourite.
- Manakish: fragrant flatbreads that pair perfectly with Shanklish.
Summary: Shanklish
Shanklish is a delicious traditional cheese that represents the diversity of Syrian cooking. With its unique combination of aromas and spices, Shanklish quickly becomes a favourite at social occasions and family celebrations. The preparation is straightforward and leaves plenty of room for adaptation, so there is something for every palate. Let Syrian cooking inspire you and bring a piece of this rich tradition into your own kitchen with Shanklish.
