Lebanese Mana'eesh Zaatar

Name: Lebanese Mana'eesh Zaatar
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 flatbreads
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: All-purpose flour; Salt; Sugar; Active dry yeast; Warm water (110°F/45°C); Olive oil; Zaatar spice; Olive oil; Sea salt; Extra olive oil for brushing

Traditional Lebanese Flatbread

A savory Middle Eastern flatbread topped with zaatar and olive oil, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

1 h 30 min
4 flatbreads
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Dough

All-purpose flour

2 cups

Salt

1 tsp

Sugar

1 tbsp

Active dry yeast

1 tbsp

Warm water (110°F/45°C)

3/4 cup

Olive oil

2 tbsp

For the Zaatar Mixture

Zaatar spice

1/4 cup

Olive oil

1/4 cup

For Finishing

Sea salt

A pinch

Extra olive oil for brushing

As needed

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

Activate Yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water, then add the yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.

Ensure your water is not too hot when activating yeast to avoid killing it.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add in the yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1 hour.

Use a stand mixer with a dough hook for easier kneading.

Preparing the Zaatar Mixture

Mix Zaatar and Oil

Mix the zaatar spice with olive oil in a small bowl to form a thick paste.

Season and Marinate

Season with a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors. Allow the mixture to sit and marinate while the dough rises.

Cooking Process

Roll the Dough

Once dough has risen, divide into four pieces and roll out each piece into a thin circle on a floured surface.

Add the Topping

Spread a generous layer of the zaatar mixture over each piece, ensuring an even coating.

Bake the Flatbreads

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and bake on a sheet or pizza stone for 7-10 minutes, until edges are golden and crispy.

Plating & Serving