Za’atar flatbread, also known as Manakish or Man’oushe, is a beloved staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. This flavorful dish combines the aromatic zest of Za’atar spice—a blend of dried herbs like thyme, oregano, marjoram mixed with sesame seeds, sumac, and salt—with the comforting base of freshly baked flatbread. Perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or a versatile accompaniment to a variety of dishes, Za’atar flatbread is both delicious and easy to make.
Here’s how you can bring this traditional Middle Eastern flavor into your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
Dough:
2 cups of all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 teaspoon of instant yeast
1 teaspoon of sugar
1/2 teaspoon of salt
3/4 cup of warm water
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Topping:
1/4 cup of Za’atar seasoning
1/4 cup of olive oil
Optional: Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly.
Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients, followed by the olive oil. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Za’atar Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the Za’atar seasoning with olive oil to create a paste. Adjust the consistency with more oil or Za’atar as needed.
Shape and Season the Flatbread:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal parts. Roll each part into a ball.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out each ball into a thin circle or oval shape.
Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Spread the Za’atar and olive oil mixture evenly over the top of each flatbread.
Bake the Flatbread:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are nicely golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Za’atar flatbread warm from the oven.
Complement it with fresh vegetables, labneh (strained yogurt), or feta cheese for a satisfying meal.
Za’atar flatbread can also be enjoyed as part of a mezze platter, alongside other dips like hummus and baba ganoush.
Tips for the Perfect Za’atar Flatbread:
Ensure your oven is properly preheated to achieve a beautifully crisp texture.
If you like your flatbread extra crispy, consider using a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet.
For an even more authentic taste, try making your own Za’atar blend with fresh dried herbs.
Za’atar flatbread not only offers a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine but also a delightful aroma that promises to make it a favorite in any household. Enjoy the process of making this simple yet delicious bread, and indulge in its rich, herbal flavors with family and friends.
Exploring Variations and Additions:
While the basic recipe for Za’atar flatbread is simple and satisfying, there are numerous ways to customize it to cater to different tastes or to add a personal touch. Here are some variations and additions that can enhance your flatbread experience:
Cheese Topping:
Before adding the Za’atar topping, sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella or crumbled feta cheese over the dough. The cheese adds a creamy texture and balances the bold flavors of the Za’atar.
Vegetable Add-Ons:
For a more substantial dish, add sliced tomatoes, onions, or olives on top of the Za’atar before baking. This not only adds nutritional value but also introduces new textures and flavors.
Herbs and Spices:
Enhance the Za’atar mix by incorporating additional herbs like fresh mint or parsley, or spices such as chili flakes to give the flatbread a spicy kick.
Dough Variations:
Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Alternatively, adding ground flax seeds or oat bran can increase the fiber content and add a subtle nutty flavor.
Gluten-Free Option:
For those with gluten sensitivities, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Ensure that the yeast and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Storing and Reheating:
Za’atar flatbread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored for later use. Here’s how to keep it tasting great:
Cooling and Storing:
Allow the flatbreads to cool completely on a wire rack before storing to prevent any condensation from making them soggy.
Wrap the flatbreads individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
For longer storage, flatbreads can be frozen. Wrap each flatbread in plastic and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
When ready to eat, there’s no need to thaw; you can reheat them directly from frozen.
Reheating:
Reheat the flatbreads in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until they are warm and slightly crispy.
Alternatively, for a quick reheat, use a toaster oven or an air fryer to restore the flatbread’s crisp texture.
Enjoy Your Creation:
Za’atar flatbread is more than just a simple bread; it’s a versatile and flavorful component that can elevate any meal, from a simple snack to a lavish dinner. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with your own variations, making Za’atar flatbread is a rewarding experience that brings a piece of Middle Eastern culinary tradition into your home.
Try pairing it with a variety of dips and sides, or simply enjoy it on its own for a truly authentic taste.
