Iab

Iab (sometimes spelled aiyb or ayib) is a fresh cheese similar to cottage cheese. It's cooling flavor is the perfect foil for many spicy Ethiopian dishes. Iab is often served as the finish to an Ethiopian meal.

Makes 2 cups

• Cottage cheese, small curd -- 2 cups
• Plain yogurt -- 1/2 cup
• Lemon juice -- 2 tablespoons
• Salt and pepper -- to taste

Method

1. Place the cottage cheese, yogurt, lemon juice, salt and pepper into a large bowl and use a wooden spoon to stir together and lightly mash the cheese curds.
2. Adjust seasoning and serve as a side dish or as the final course to an Ethiopian meal.

Variations

• Iab be Gomen (Fresh cheese with greens): Stir in 2 cups of chopped and sauteed collard greens.
• For added flavor, you can stir in chopped parsley, spinach or fenugreek leaves. Fresh lemon zest can also be added.