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Za'atar Manaeesh

A traditional Middle Eastern flatbread topped with an aromatic blend of za'atar and olive oil. Baked until golden with soft, chewy centers and lightly crisp edges.

80 minMediumServes 4380 cal/serving

Middle EasternBreakfastOvenVegetarianVeganHalal-friendlyKosher-styleNut-FreeDairy-FreeEgg-FreeSoy-FreeShellfish-FreePork-FreeAlcohol-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast
  • 0.5 tsp granulated sugar
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 tbsp za'atar spice blend

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a bowl, combine 1 cup warm water, 1 tsp active dry yeast, and 0.5 tsp granulated sugar, then let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

  2. 2

    Add 2.5 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp fine sea salt, and 2 tbsp olive oil to form a soft dough, then knead for 8 minutes and let rise for 1 hour.

  3. 3

    Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and divide dough into four equal balls.

  4. 4

    Mix 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil with 4 tbsp za'atar spice blend in a small bowl until smooth.

  5. 5

    Roll each dough ball into a round flatbread, dimple the surface with fingers, and spread the za'atar mixture on top.

  6. 6

    Bake on a baking sheet for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are golden brown.

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Questions

What is Za'atar Manaeesh?

A traditional Middle Eastern flatbread topped with an aromatic blend of za'atar and olive oil. Baked until golden with soft, chewy centers and lightly crisp edges. This reference files it under Middle Eastern breakfast: made in the oven, rated medium and about 80 minutes start to finish.

What oven temperature does Za'atar Manaeesh need?

For Za'atar Manaeesh, the oven is set to 475 F (about 245 C) in step 3. The longest stretch at that heat is 10 minutes, in step 6.

What if the yeast does not foam in Za'atar Manaeesh?

Step 1 reads: "In a bowl, combine 1 cup warm water, 1 tsp active dry yeast, and 0.5 tsp granulated sugar, then let sit for 5 minutes until foamy." Then it is dead or the liquid was too hot. Step 1 is the test: no foam after ten minutes means start again with fresh yeast and liquid that feels barely warm, about 105 F.

What can I use instead of za'atar in Za'atar Manaeesh?

The entry for Za'atar Manaeesh calls for 4 tbsp za'atar spice blend. In its place: Combine dried thyme or oregano with toasted sesame seeds and a little lemon zest, which stands in for the sumac.

How many calories are in Za'atar Manaeesh?

One serving (the recipe makes 4) is about 380 calories, with 8 g protein, 48 g carbohydrate and 18 g fat, plus 3 g fiber and 420 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

Can I start Za'atar Manaeesh the day before?

Yes. Step 2 is a built-in pause of 1 hour: "Add 2.5 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp fine sea salt, and 2 tbsp olive oil to form a soft dough, then knead for 8 minutes and let rise for 1 hour." Do everything up to that point ahead of time and pick up at step 3 when you are ready to finish.

Serve it with

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