Experience the irresistible aroma and flavor of the Middle East with Manaqish Bil Za’atar, a traditional Lebanese thyme bread that’s a staple of Levantine cuisine. This simple yet soulful flatbread is made from a soft, pillowy dough brushed with a fragrant mixture of za’atar and extra virgin olive oil, creating a savory and herbaceous topping that’s bursting with earthy, tangy, and nutty flavors. Perfectly baked to golden perfection in just 12 minutes, this versatile bread is ideal for breakfast, as a snack, or even as an appetizer. Pair it with creamy labneh, fresh vegetables, or a drizzle of olive oil for an authentic taste of Lebanon. Easy to prepare with pantry staples, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your repertoire of Middle Eastern dishes.
In a small bowl, mix the warm water, dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the olive oil and the yeast mixture.
Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Preheat your oven to 240°C (475°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into thin circles about 6-8 inches in diameter.
In a small bowl, mix the za'atar with the extra virgin olive oil to create a paste.
Spread a thin layer of the za'atar paste evenly over each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
Transfer the prepared dough circles to the baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the Manaqish Bil Za'atar warm or at room temperature with a side of labneh or fresh vegetables.
Calories |
2822 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 105.7 g | 136% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.3 g | 76% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3579 mg | 156% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 406.9 g | 148% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.0 g | 71% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.6 g | ||
| Protein | 56.9 g | 114% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 272 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 28.8 mg | 160% | |
| Potassium | 829 mg | 18% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.