Manakish Zaatar is a beloved Levantine flatbread topped with a fragrant mixture of zaatar spice blend and olive oil. Originating from countries like Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, it is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack. The dough is soft yet slightly crisp on the edges, while the topping offers an earthy, tangy, and slightly nutty flavor thanks to the combination of thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and olive oil. Traditionally baked in stone ovens, it can be easily prepared at home in a regular oven or even on a skillet. Manakish is perfect on its own or served with cheese, labneh, fresh vegetables, or olives.
Preparation Time
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Preparation: 1 hour (including dough resting)
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Cooking: 10–12 minutes
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Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Serving Size
Makes 6–8 medium flatbreads.
Ingredients
For the dough:
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon instant yeast
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 cup warm water (adjust slightly if needed)
For the topping:
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½ cup zaatar spice blend
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½ cup olive oil
Detailed Recipe
Step 1 – Prepare the dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. Add the flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix to form a rough dough, then knead for 7–8 minutes by hand or 4–5 minutes in a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.
Step 2 – Let the dough rise
Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover with a clean cloth. Leave it in a warm spot for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 3 – Prepare the zaatar topping
In a small bowl, mix the zaatar blend with olive oil until it forms a spreadable paste. Adjust the oil if it feels too dry.
Step 4 – Shape the flatbreads
Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the dough and divide it into 6–8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten into a round disc about ¼-inch thick.
Step 5 – Add the topping
Place the discs on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the zaatar mixture onto each disc and spread it evenly to the edges, leaving a slight border.
Step 6 – Bake the Manakish
Bake in the preheated oven for about 8–12 minutes, or until the bread is lightly golden and cooked through but still soft. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender.
Step 7 – Serve
Serve warm with labneh, cheese, olives, fresh vegetables, or enjoy them plain. These can also be reheated in a pan or oven for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
