The aroma of freshly baked Zaatar Manakish wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine that golden-brown flatbread topped with aromatic zaatar seasoning, creamy labneh, and briny olives—it’s comfort food at its finest. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Beirut.
Every bite of this delightful flatbread is like a culinary hug that wraps you in warm spices and creamy goodness. Whether you’re gathering friends for brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, this dish promises to elevate your taste buds to new heights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Zaatar Manakish recipe is incredibly easy to prepare; you’ll impress your guests without breaking a sweat
- With its rich flavors and stunning presentation, it’s bound to be the star of any meal
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table setting!
- Perfect as a snack or main dish; it’s versatile enough for every occasion
When I first served this Zaatar Manakish at a family gathering, the room erupted into cheers as everyone took their first bite. It was love at first taste!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for a soft and fluffy texture in your dough.
- Warm Water: Make sure the water is warm but not hot; it helps activate the yeast.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and flavor to the dough.
- Active Dry Yeast: Fresh yeast is key for achieving that perfectly risen dough.
- Zaatar Spice Blend: A mix of thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and oregano brings traditional flavors.
- Labneh: Creamy labneh enhances the manakish with its tangy flavor; feel free to use store-bought.
- Black Olives: Pitted black olives add salty bursts that contrast beautifully with the other flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare yourself for a delightful culinary adventure as we embark on making our Zaatar Manakish!
Dough Preparation: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit until frothy—about 5 minutes—before adding flour and olive oil. Stir until combined.
Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can channel your inner chef here!
Let It Rise: Place your kneaded dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
Shape Your Flatbreads: Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into circles about ¼ inch thick—think pizza but more aromatic!
Add Toppings: Brush each circle generously with olive oil and sprinkle zaatar spice blend on top. Add dollops of labneh in various spots before adding sliced olives.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Place manakish on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Now you have homemade Zaatar Manakish fresh from your oven! The aroma will have everyone flocking to your kitchen like moths to light.
Enjoying this delightful dish is all about taking those first bites while it’s still warm. Pair it with some fresh veggies or enjoy it solo—either way, you’re in for an unforgettable treat!
You Must Know
- Zaatar Manakish with Labneh and Olives is a delightful dish that combines warm, doughy goodness with savory toppings
- This recipe will make your kitchen smell heavenly, transporting you to the streets of Lebanon
- It’s perfect for breakfast or as an appetizer at gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the dough first, allowing it to rise while you mix the zaatar topping. Once the dough is ready, roll it out and add the toppings before baking to golden perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap labneh for cream cheese or add sun-dried tomatoes for a twist! You can also sprinkle some chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Manakish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the fluffiest dough, let it rise longer than usual; patience pays off!
- Always use freshly ground zaatar for maximum flavor impact
- When rolling out your dough, keep it slightly thicker for a chewy texture that everyone will love
Sometimes, I catch myself reminiscing about my first attempt at making Zaatar Manakish—my friends devoured it faster than I could say “delicious,” leaving me both proud and hungry!
FAQ
What is Zaatar Manakish with Labneh and Olives?
Zaatar Manakish with Labneh and Olives is a Middle Eastern flatbread topped with zaatar and creamy labneh.
Can I make Zaatar Manakish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and toppings in advance; just assemble before baking.
How can I make my labneh creamier for topping?
Blend labneh with a splash of olive oil or yogurt to achieve a smoother consistency.
Zaatar Manakish with Labneh and Olives
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (4 manakish)
Description
Zaatar Manakish with Labneh and Olives is a mouthwatering Middle Eastern flatbread featuring aromatic zaatar, creamy labneh, and savory olives—a perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Warm water
- Olive oil
- Active dry yeast
- Zaatar spice blend
- Labneh
- Black olives
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add flour and olive oil; mix until combined.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, divide into portions, and roll into circles about ¼ inch thick.
- Brush each circle with olive oil, sprinkle zaatar, add dollops of labneh, and top with sliced olives.
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake on lined sheets for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 manakish (105g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
