Zaatar Bread (Manakish) Recipe

Manakish, or Zaatar Bread, is a popular Middle Eastern flatbread topped with a fragrant blend of zaatar spice and olive oil. Soft and slightly crispy, this delicious bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or as part of a mezze spread. Serve it warm with tea, cheese, or fresh vegetables for an authentic experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal kneading make this a beginner-friendly recipe.
• Authentic Middle Eastern Flavor – The earthy, tangy taste of zaatar pairs beautifully with warm, freshly baked bread.
• Versatile – Enjoy it on its own, with cheese, olives, or yogurt.
• Perfect for Any Time of Day – Great for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack.
• Soft & Aromatic – A light, fluffy texture with a crisp golden edge.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Zaatar Topping:

• ¼ cup zaatar spice mix
• ⅓ cup olive oil

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast.
2. Knead the Dough – Gradually add warm water while mixing, kneading until a soft, elastic dough forms.
3. Add Olive Oil – Drizzle with olive oil, knead briefly, then cover the bowl with a cloth. Let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Make the Zaatar Mixture:

4. Combine Ingredients – In a small bowl, mix the zaatar spice with olive oil to form a thick, spreadable paste.

Shape the Flatbreads:

5. Preheat the Oven – Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Divide & Roll – Punch down the dough and divide it into small equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a round, flat shape, about ¼-inch thick.

Top & Bake:

7. Spread Zaatar Mix – Evenly spread the zaatar mixture over the surface of each flatbread.
8. Bake – Place the flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve & Enjoy:

9. Cool Slightly – Let the bread rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
10. Enjoy – Serve warm with tea, feta cheese, fresh vegetables, or labneh.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 flatbreads
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Rise Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Manakish – Add crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Herb Infusion – Mix fresh thyme or oregano into the dough for extra flavor.
• Stuffed Manakish – Fill with cheese, olives, or minced meat for a heartier version.
• Whole Wheat Version – Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Extra Crispy – Roll the dough thinner and bake for a couple of extra minutes for a crispier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze baked flatbreads for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven for a fresh taste.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes or in a dry pan over low heat.

FAQs

What is zaatar?

Zaatar is a Middle Eastern spice blend made with thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and other spices.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight and let it come to room temperature before baking.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, if you’re short on time, pizza dough can be used as a substitute.

How do I keep the bread soft?

Cover the bread with a clean towel after baking to retain moisture.

Can I cook this on a stovetop?

Yes, cook in a dry pan over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden.

What can I serve with manakish?

It pairs well with labneh, hummus, olives, sliced cucumbers, and tomatoes.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.

Can I use fresh yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, use 1 tablespoon of fresh yeast and dissolve it in warm water before mixing with dry ingredients.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Ensure the yeast is fresh and the water is warm (not hot) to activate it properly.

Can I add toppings other than zaatar?

Yes, try toppings like ground beef, onions, or tomatoes for different flavors.

Conclusion

Zaatar Bread (Manakish) is a simple yet flavorful Middle Eastern flatbread that’s easy to make at home. With its fragrant zaatar topping and soft, warm texture, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as part of a delicious mezze platter. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven with your favorite dips and sides!