Zaatar Mana'eesh

Zaatar Mana'eesh is a traditional Middle Eastern flatbread topped with a fragrant blend of za'atar and olive oil. Mana'eesh, often referred to as "Middle Eastern pizza," is a popular breakfast item across the Levant, including Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine. This delicious bread is a staple in these regions, enjoyed by locals thanks to its unique, tangy flavor and ease of preparation. The word Mana'eesh originates from the Arabic verb 'naasaha', which means to carve out or sculpt, referring to how the dough is prepared before being topped with za'atar.

History of Zaatar Mana'eesh

The origins of Mana'eesh can be traced back to antiquity when ancient civilizations cultivated various herbs and spices. Zaatar itself is believed to have been used since ancient Egyptian times. Zaatar, a blend of herbs including thyme, oregano, marjoram, and sumac, combined with toasted sesame seeds, is not only a flavorful topping but also prized for its medicinal properties. The preparation and consumption of Mana'eesh likely developed alongside other flatbreads in the region, becoming a beloved morning routine for people in Middle Eastern societies.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 2 cups
• Warm water - 3/4 cup
• Instant yeast - 1 teaspoon
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons, plus extra for brushing
• Zaatar - 3 tablespoons

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, instant yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, which indicates the yeast is active.

Add all-purpose flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough begins to form. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

Coat the mixing bowl with a small amount of olive oil, place the dough in the bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Topping

While the dough is rising, prepare the za'atar topping. In a small bowl, mix zaatar with a little olive oil to form a slightly loose paste. The mix should be easily spreadable but not too runny.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

After the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the dough to release excess air and divide it into 3 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and let them rest for about 10 minutes.

On a lightly floured surface, take each dough ball and roll it out into a circle about 1/4 inch thick. Place each rolled-out dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Cooking Process

Baking the Mana'eesh

Spread the prepared za'atar mixture over each piece of dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Use the back of a spoon to evenly distribute the topping.

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 7-10 minutes or until the edges of the Mana'eesh are lightly golden and crispy. You may want to check your timer to avoid overcooking. Remove from the oven and immediately brush the edges with a little more olive oil.

Tips for Perfect Mana'eesh

• Ensure the water is warm but not hot to properly activate the yeast.
• Adjust the consistency of the za'atar mixture as needed by adding more olive oil or zaatar.
• For a crispier texture, bake the Mana'eesh directly on a pizza stone if available.

Enjoying Your Zaatar Mana'eesh

Mana'eesh is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, with its delightful aroma filling the air. Traditionally eaten at breakfast, it can be complemented with fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, or served alongside labneh, a strained yogurt cheese. You may also enjoy it with a cup of mint tea or freshly brewed coffee for a complete Middle Eastern breakfast experience. Feel free to enjoy Mana'eesh at any time of the day as a snack or light meal, its herbaceous flavor and satisfying texture making it a versatile choice for any occasion.