Manakish Recipe (Traditional Middle Eastern Flatbread)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Manakish is a popular Middle Eastern flatbread topped with aromatic herbs, cheese, or minced meat. Often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, this flavorful bread is especially popular in and across the Levant region.
The most classic version features za’atar (a fragrant herb and sesame seed mixture) mixed with olive oil, spread over soft dough and baked until golden. Manakish is simple to prepare yet incredibly delicious, making it a beloved staple of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Za’atar Topping
- 3 tablespoons za’atar spice mix
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Toppings
- Mozzarella or akkawi cheese
- Minced lamb
- Sliced tomatoes
- Fresh herbs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Flatbreads
Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a round flatbread about ½ cm thick.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Mix the za’atar and olive oil in a small bowl. Spread the mixture evenly over each piece of dough.
Step 6: Bake the Manakish
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Place the flatbreads on a baking tray and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm with fresh vegetables, olives, or yogurt.
Tips for Perfect Manakish
Use high-quality olive oil
Good olive oil enhances the flavor of the za’atar topping.
Preheat the oven well
A hot oven ensures the bread cooks quickly and becomes slightly crisp.
Try different toppings
Cheese, minced meat, or vegetables can create delicious variations.
Serve fresh
Manakish tastes best when served warm right after baking.
Serving Suggestions
Manakish is traditionally served with:
- Fresh cucumbers and tomatoes
- Olives
- Labneh or yogurt
- Mint tea
Nutrition Facts
Approximate nutrition per 1 serving of Turkish Manakish:
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on the type and amount of cheese, meat, olive oil, flour, and other toppings used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Manakish?
Manakish is a Middle Eastern flatbread topped with ingredients such as za’atar, cheese, or minced meat, and baked until golden.
What does za’atar taste like?
Za’atar has a herby, slightly tangy flavor with sesame seeds and spices.
Can Manakish be made without yeast?
Yes, but yeast gives the bread its soft and airy texture.
How long can Manakish be stored?
Manakish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can Manakish be frozen?
Yes. You can freeze baked Manakish for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven.
Similar Recipes
- Pita Bread – Soft Middle Eastern pocket bread perfect for wraps and dips.
- Turkish Pide – Boat-shaped flatbread filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables.
- Lahmacun – Thin Turkish flatbread topped with minced meat and spices.
- Focaccia Bread – Italian olive oil flatbread with herbs and sea salt.
- Naan Bread – Soft South Asian flatbread traditionally baked in a tandoor.
Final Thoughts
Manakish is a simple yet flavorful flatbread that showcases the rich culinary traditions of the Middle East. Its soft dough and aromatic toppings make it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or light meals.
Whether topped with classic za’atar or melted cheese, homemade Manakish brings authentic Middle Eastern flavors to your kitchen.
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