Sometimes you just need something warm and cheesy. This Manakish with Za’atar is the ultimate comfort food. It brings a fresh, savory flavor to your table. Your family will love the soft, tender dough.
This recipe is perfect for a slow spring morning. It fills your kitchen with a wonderful, earthy aroma. You can enjoy a bakery-style meal right at home. It is simple, delicious, and very satisfying.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner for Manakish with Za’atar
This recipe is a winner for busy weekend mornings. It is a budget-friendly way to feed a crowd. You get two different flavors from one batch of dough. The savory herbs and melty cheese offer something for everyone. It is a great way to introduce new flavors.
The dough is very forgiving for beginner bakers. You do not need any fancy kitchen equipment. It uses basic pantry staples you likely already have. Your kids will love helping you press the dough circles. It makes brunch feel special without the stress.
Simple Method
Making these flatbreads is very straightforward and fun. You start by letting your yeast bloom in warm water. Then, you mix the dough until it feels smooth. A short rise time makes the crust light and airy. Even a beginner can master this dough quickly.
Simple Ingredients
These ingredients are mostly simple staples that create big flavor.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup olive oil for dough
- 1/2 cup za’atar spice blend
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil for topping
- 2 cups shredded Akkawi or Mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast; allow to bloom for 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup olive oil.
- Knead the dough for approximately 8 minutes until smooth and elastic; place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and grease two large baking sheets.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into 8 equal balls; roll each ball into a circle approximately 6 inches in diameter and 1/4 inch thick.
- Use your fingertips to create small indentations across the surface of each dough circle to prevent air bubbles and hold the toppings.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the za’atar spice blend and 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil.
- Spread the za’atar mixture onto 4 dough rounds and distribute the shredded cheese evenly across the remaining 4 rounds.
- Transfer the dough rounds to the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the oven and serve warm, optionally folding the flatbreads while eating.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these flatbreads warm right out of the oven. They pair perfectly with fresh cucumber and tomato slices. Add some salty olives and a dollop of labneh. You can even fold them like a soft taco. It makes a wonderful weekend meal for your family.
Keep It Fresh
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for three days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes. This keeps the crust perfectly tender and warm. Avoid using the microwave as it makes dough rubbery.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the 10-minute yeast blooming step.
- Avoid using water that is too hot for the yeast.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for better flavor.
- Make the dough a day ahead to save time.
- Add a side of fresh mint for a spring touch.
- Sprinkle a little extra za’atar over the cheese rounds.
- Press deep dimples into the dough to hold oil.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free bread blend.
- Use feta cheese mixed with mozzarella for extra tang.
- Add sliced olives on top of the cheese rounds.
- Try a drizzle of honey over the hot za’atar.
Quick Answers
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can let it rise in the fridge. Just take it out an hour before baking. This helps develop a much deeper flavor profile.
What if I cannot find Akkawi cheese?
Mozzarella is a perfect and easy substitute for everyone. You can also mix in some mild white cheddar. It will still melt beautifully and taste great.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely, kids love the mild, cheesy flatbreads specifically. The za’atar version is also a hit with many children. It is a fun, hands-on meal for them.
I hope this warm recipe brings joy to your spring table. Making Manakish with Za’atar is a lovely way to start the day. Happy cooking!
— Alex
Ingredients
- 3 cups all -purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup olive oil for dough
- 1/2 cup za 'atar spice blend
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil for topping
- 2 cups shredded Akkawi or Mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast; allow to bloom for 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine flour and salt, then add the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup olive oil.
- Knead the dough for approximately 8 minutes until smooth and elastic; place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and grease two large baking sheets.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into 8 equal balls; roll each ball into a circle approximately 6 inches in diameter and 1/4 inch thick.
- Use your fingertips to create small indentations across the surface of each dough circle to prevent air bubbles and hold the toppings.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the za'atar spice blend and 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil.
- Spread the za'atar mixture onto 4 dough rounds and distribute the shredded cheese evenly across the remaining 4 rounds.
- Transfer the dough rounds to the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the oven and serve warm, optionally folding the flatbreads while eating.
