Zaatar Manakeesh Recipe

Introduction to Zaatar Manakeesh

Zaatar Manakeesh is a traditional Middle Eastern dish often enjoyed for breakfast or as a light snack. Originating from the Levant region, this flatbread topped with a mixture of zaatar and olive oil is both flavorful and aromatic. Zaatar, a blend of thyme, oregano, and sumac, is not only delicious but also offers a variety of health benefits. Manakeesh can be found in bakeries across Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine, each with their unique twist on this classic dish.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 3 cups
• Warm water - 1 cup
• Active dry yeast - 1 packet
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Zaatar - 4 tablespoons
• Olive oil (additional for topping) - 4 tablespoons

Additional Ingredients

• Sesame seeds (optional) - 2 tablespoons
• Feta cheese (optional) - 1/2 cup

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water with sugar and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough starts forming.
3. Gradually add olive oil while kneading the dough. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can adjust with more flour or water if necessary.
4. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Preparing the Zaatar Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix zaatar with olive oil to form a paste. Add sesame seeds if desired for added texture.

Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal-sized balls, approximately the size of a small apple.
3. On a floured surface, roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread a generous amount of the zaatar and olive oil mixture over each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Optionally, crumble feta cheese on top, if using.
7. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Using a Cooking Timer

Ensure optimal baking by using a cooking timer to track the exact time and prevent over-baking.

Serving and Enjoyment

Once baked, let the Zaatar Manakeesh cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For a complete meal, pair it with fresh salads or a side of labneh and olives. Consider enjoying it alongside a cup of strong tea or Arabic coffee for an authentic Middle Eastern experience.

Zaatar Manakeesh is perfect for breakfast gatherings or as a snack throughout the day. Its rich flavors and simple preparation make it a beloved dish across generations in Middle Eastern households.