Za'atar Manakish
A classic Levantine flatbread topped with a fragrant, herbaceous blend of za'atar and high-quality olive oil, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Ingredients
- •3 cups all-purpose flour (375g)
- •1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- •1 tsp sugar
- •1 tsp salt
- •1 cup warm water
- •2 tbsp olive oil (for the dough)
- •1/2 cup high-quality za'atar spice blend
- •1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (for the topping)
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
- 2
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for 60 minutes or until doubled in size.
- 3
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it inside while the oven heats.
- 4
In a small bowl, whisk together the za'atar and the 1/2 cup of olive oil until it forms a spreadable, paste-like consistency.
- 5
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal balls. Roll each ball out into a thin circle, about 8 inches in diameter.
- 6
Use your fingertips to press small indentations into the surface of the dough, then spread a generous tablespoon of the za'atar mixture over each flatbread, leaving a small border at the edges.
- 7
Transfer the flatbreads to a baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the bottom is crisp.
- 8
Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving warm.
💡 Chef tips
- For a more authentic flavor, ensure your za'atar blend contains sumac, which provides the signature tangy finish.
- You can prepare the dough a day in advance; let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for a deeper, sourdough-like flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a toaster oven to restore the crisp texture.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished Manakish should have a golden, slightly chewy crust with a fragrant, earthy, and tangy topping that smells intensely of toasted herbs and fresh olive oil.