Manakish (Lebanese Flatbread with Za’atar)

Discover the delicious simplicity of Lebanese cuisine with Manakish, a traditional flatbread topped with aromatic za’atar. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light snack, Manakish offers a warm, flavorful bite that pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, olives, or labneh.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/3 cup za’atar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for topping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

   In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and 2 tablespoons olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Shape the Flatbreads

   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a round flatbread, about 1/4 inch thick.

3. Add the Topping

   In a small bowl, mix the za’atar with 2 tablespoons olive oil to form a paste. Spread the za’atar mixture evenly over each flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. Bake

   Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 8–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the flatbread is cooked through.

5. Serve

   Serve Manakish warm, either on its own or with accompaniments like labneh, fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives.

Serving

Manakish makes a perfect breakfast, snack, or light meal. Enjoy the fragrant flavors of za’atar and olive oil, and share this comforting Lebanese flatbread with friends and family.