Authentic Middle Eastern Manakish Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon yeast
  • 315 ml warm water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons za'atar spice mix
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 200 grams feta cheese, crumbled

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar.
  2. In a separate bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture. Mix well until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
  6. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  7. Punch down the dough and divide it into small balls. Roll out each ball into a small circular shape.
  8. In a small bowl, mix together the za'atar spice mix and extra virgin olive oil. Spread this mixture onto each piece of dough.
  9. Top each piece of dough with crumbled feta cheese.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
  11. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
  • Experiment with different toppings such as minced lamb, chicken, or beef.
  • Add additional herbs and spices to the dough, such as garlic powder, oregano, or cumin.
  • Try using different cheeses like mozzarella, halloumi, or goat cheese.
  • Make a vegetarian version by topping the dough with a mixture of roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
  • For a vegan option, omit the cheese and use vegan-friendly toppings like hummus, roasted chickpeas, or tofu.
  • Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling honey or pomegranate molasses over the baked manakish.
  • Experiment with different shapes and sizes, such as making mini manakish or folding the dough into a triangular shape.
  • For a gluten-free alternative, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Incorporate different herbs and spices into the za'atar mixture, such as sumac, thyme, or sesame seeds.

Recipe overview

Manakish, also known as Middle Eastern pizza, is a popular breakfast dish in Lebanon. This simple yet flavorful dish features dough topped with za'atar spice mix and feta cheese, then baked until golden. This recipe makes for a delicious and satisfying breakfast or snack that's perfect any time of the day. Aromatic za'atar and salty feta cheese make a delightful flavor combination that will surely excite your taste buds. The dough is soft and slightly chewy, providing a delightful contrast to the bold toppings. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to add your favorite toppings. Enjoy a taste of the Middle East with this delicious Manakish recipe.

Common questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
  2. Yes, you can replace all or a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version of Manakish.
  3. Can I use dried yeast instead of fresh yeast?
  4. Yes, you can use dried yeast instead of fresh yeast. Use 2 ¼ teaspoons of dried yeast for every tablespoon of fresh yeast called for in the recipe.
  5. Do I need to let the dough rise?
  6. Yes, it is important to let the dough rise for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size. This helps to develop the flavor and texture of the Manakish.
  7. Can I freeze the dough?
  8. Yes, you can freeze the dough after it has risen. Simply shape it into balls, place them on a baking tray, and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a ziplock bag and store in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
  9. Can I use different toppings?
  10. Absolutely! While za'atar and feta cheese are traditional toppings for Manakish, you can get creative and use other herbs, spices, or cheeses according to your preference.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough into the desired thickness and shape.
  • Baking Tray - A flat tray used to bake the manakish in the oven.
  • Parchment Paper - Placed on the baking tray to prevent the manakish from sticking and for easy cleanup.
  • Mixing Bowls - Used to mix the ingredients for the dough and za'atar topping.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons - Used to accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Damp Cloth - Placed over the bowl of dough to keep it moist and help it rise.
  • Knife or Pizza Cutter - Used to divide the dough and cut the baked manakish into slices or wedges.
  • Serving Platter - Used to present and serve the manakish.

Origin stories

Manakish, also known as the Middle Eastern pizza, is a popular breakfast item in Lebanon. Its history is as rich as its flavor, tracing back to the early days of civilization in the Mediterranean region. The name "Manakish" is derived from the Arabic word "Naqash", which means to sculpt or carve out. This refers to the practice of creating little dips in the dough where the toppings would nestle during baking. Traditionally, it was the first task of the day for the baker, to provide fresh Manakish for the people starting their day. This humble bread, topped with za'atar, a tangy mixture of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac, or sometimes with cheese or ground meat, has remained a beloved staple for centuries. It’s a taste of history, savored with every bite.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.