Manakish Recipe

Introduction to Manakish

Manakish is a popular Levantine dish, traditionally served for breakfast or lunch. Known for its versatile toppings, this flatbread is a staple in Lebanese and Syrian cuisine. Its origins can be traced back to ancient times, where bread was a central part of daily meals. "Manakish" translates to "decorated" in Arabic, which aptly describes the way the toppings are spread over the dough before baking.

The Cultural Significance of Manakish

Manakish holds cultural significance across the Levant region. It's a communal dish often enjoyed with family or friends. Bakeries in Lebanon and Syria fill the air with the appetizing aroma of fresh-baked manakish in the early mornings. Traditionally, it was baked in communal wood-fired ovens, but today many enjoy making it at home.

Ingredients

Below is a list of ingredients needed to make traditional manakish. Make sure to click on each ingredient to see more details or where to purchase them.

• Flour
• Yeast
• Water
• Salt
• Olive Oil
• Zaatar (a blend of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds)
• Cheese (like Akkawi or Mozzarella)
• Ground Beef (optional)
• Tomatoes (optional)

Preparation of Dough

The dough is the base for manakish, and getting it right is crucial to a great dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of Flour
• 1 teaspoon of Yeast
• 1/2 cup of warm Water
• 1 teaspoon of Salt
• 1 tablespoon of Olive Oil

Instructions

1. Begin by dissolving the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
3. Add the olive oil and yeast mixture to the flour mixture.
4. Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
5. Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Preparing the Toppings

The classic toppings for manakish are zaatar and cheese.

Zaatar Topping

• 4 tablespoons of Zaatar
• 2 tablespoons of Olive Oil

Mix the zaatar and olive oil in a bowl to create a paste.

Cheese Topping

• 1 cup of crumbled Cheese
• Optional: diced Tomatoes or ground beef

Simply place the cheese atop the dough, and add optional toppings like tomatoes or ground beef as desired.

Assembling and Baking

Now that the dough has risen and your toppings are ready, it's time to assemble and bake the manakish.

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a lemon).
3. Roll out each ball on a floured surface into a thin round shape.
4. Spread the zaatar mixture or place the cheese topping on the dough.
5. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
6. For best results, use a cooking timer to ensure accurate baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Manakish is best enjoyed hot from the oven, but it's equally delicious served at room temperature. It can be a delightful addition to a brunch spread or as a snack during the day.

• Serve with fresh vegetables like cucumber, olives, and mint leaves.
• Pair with a side salad of choice, such as tabbouleh or fattoush.
• Enjoy with a cup of tea or a glass of freshly squeezed juice.

Conclusion

Making manakish at home allows you to bring the flavors of the Levant to your kitchen. With its simple ingredients yet diverse topping options, it appeals to all taste buds. Whether you're baking it for a family breakfast or a friendly gathering, manakish is a versatile dish that caters to all.