Lebanese Manakish, often called Zaatar Flatbread, is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that is beloved for its simplicity, aroma, and incredible flavor. This flatbread is topped with a fragrant blend of zaatar (thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds) mixed with olive oil, baked until golden and slightly crispy. It is often enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, paired with fresh vegetables, labneh, or simply on its own.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is quick, versatile, and comforting. The dough is soft yet chewy, and the zaatar topping gives each bite a unique herbal and nutty flavor that is utterly addictive. It’s also a great way to bring a taste of Lebanon into your kitchen with minimal effort.

This is a Must Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it combines freshly baked bread with aromatic zaatar, creating a dish that is simple yet deeply satisfying. Whether served with cheese, yogurt, or fresh vegetables, it’s a versatile flatbread that is both authentic and easy to make at home.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour resting for dough)
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes per batch
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes

Servings: 6–8 flatbreads
Calories: Approximately 200–220 calories per flatbread

Course: Breakfast / Snack / Appetizer
Cuisine: Lebanese / Middle Eastern

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water (adjust as needed)

For the Zaatar Topping:

• 3 tablespoons zaatar spice mix
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)

Optional for serving: labneh, sliced tomatoes, cucumber, olives, or feta cheese

Cooking Directions

Prepare the dough, let it rise, shape into flatbreads, top with the zaatar mixture, bake until golden, and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Mix well.

Step 2: Add the olive oil and warm water gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 6: Punch down the dough and divide it into 6–8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 6–7 inches in diameter.

Step 7: Mix the zaatar spice with olive oil to create a paste. Spread a thin layer of the zaatar mixture evenly over each flatbread.

Step 8: Place the flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the bread is cooked through.

Step 9: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Lebanese Manakish warm with labneh, fresh vegetables, olives, or feta cheese. It also makes a delicious snack on its own or paired with tea or coffee.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh zaatar for the most aromatic flavor.
• Do not overload the flatbread with the topping; a thin layer works best.
• For softer flatbreads, brush lightly with olive oil before baking.
• Ensure your oven is preheated to get the best crust.

Variations in Detail

• Cheese Manakish: Add Akkawi, mozzarella, or feta cheese on top of the zaatar before baking.
• Spinach Manakish: Top with a mixture of sautéed spinach, olive oil, and garlic.
• Za’atar and Tomato: Spread zaatar and olive oil, then add thin slices of fresh tomato before baking.
• Sweet Version: Replace zaatar with a cinnamon sugar and butter mixture for a sweet flatbread variation.

Freezing and Storage

Unbaked dough can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap each dough ball individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Baked Manakish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a warm oven for 3–5 minutes before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Oven

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, you can substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version, but the texture will be slightly denser.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

Can I use store-bought zaatar?
Yes, store-bought zaatar works well, but fresh zaatar gives a more vibrant flavor.

How can I make it crispier?
Roll the dough thinner and bake a few minutes longer to get a crispier flatbread.

Conclusion

Lebanese Manakish (Zaatar Flatbread) is a delicious, aromatic, and versatile flatbread that brings authentic Middle Eastern flavors to your table. Simple to prepare yet impressive in taste, it is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. With its soft texture, fragrant zaatar topping, and endless serving possibilities, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, flavorful, and wholesome flatbreads.