Manakeesh bi Zaatar

Manakeesh bi Zaatar Recipe from Lebanon - Delicious Thyme Flatbread

Region / culture: Lebanon | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Manakeesh bi Zaatar is a popular Middle Eastern flatbread topped with a mixture of thyme, olive oil, and other herbs and spices. It is a delicious and savory dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack.

History

Manakeesh bi Zaatar has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Lebanon and has since spread to other countries in the region. The dish is traditionally made with a dough base that is topped with a mixture of zaatar (thyme), olive oil, and other seasonings.

Ingredients

2.5 cups plain flour
1 tsp yeast dissolved in 0.25 cup of water
a generous 0.5 cup tepid water
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
6 tbsp thyme
0.5 cup olive oil

How to prepare

Dilute the rice in a small amount of cold water.
Bring the milk to a boil and add the rice.
Continuously stir until the mixture thickens.
Pour the mixture into cups and let it cool.
Before serving, sprinkle pistachios on the surface.

Variations

Add cheese or minced meat to the topping for a different flavor.
Use different herbs and spices in the topping for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to knead the dough well to ensure a soft and fluffy texture.

- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of thyme and other seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

- Bake the Manakeesh bi Zaatar in a preheated oven for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Manakeesh bi Zaatar warm with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad.

Cooking Techniques

Bake the Manakeesh bi Zaatar in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or until the dough is golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use whole wheat flour instead of plain flour for a healthier option.

- Substitute dried thyme for fresh thyme if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough and topping ahead of time and assemble the Manakeesh bi Zaatar just before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Manakeesh bi Zaatar on a platter with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Manakeesh bi Zaatar pairs well with a cup of hot tea or a glass of fresh fruit juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Manakeesh bi Zaatar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Manakeesh bi Zaatar contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Manakeesh bi Zaatar contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Manakeesh bi Zaatar contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Manakeesh bi Zaatar contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Manakeesh bi Zaatar is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Manakeesh bi Zaatar contains gluten from the flour and may contain traces of nuts from the toppings.

Summary

Manakeesh bi Zaatar is a flavorful dish that is relatively low in calories and high in essential nutrients like iron and calcium.

Summary

Manakeesh bi Zaatar is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make at home. With a flavorful topping of thyme, olive oil, and other seasonings, this Middle Eastern flatbread is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I will always cherish. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of Beirut, Lebanon. My grandmother, who was a wonderful cook, had invited me into her kitchen to teach me the art of making traditional Lebanese dishes.

On that particular day, she decided to show me how to make Manakeesh bi Zaatar, a popular flatbread topped with a delicious mixture of thyme, sesame seeds, olive oil, and sumac. As she gathered the ingredients and began to mix them together, the intoxicating aroma of the zaatar filled the air, and I knew that this was going to be a special dish.

My grandmother explained to me that zaatar was a staple in Lebanese cuisine, and that it had been used for centuries to add flavor and depth to dishes. She told me stories of how her own grandmother had taught her to make Manakeesh bi Zaatar when she was a young girl, and how the recipe had been passed down through generations of our family.

As we worked together to knead the dough and roll it out into flat rounds, my grandmother shared her secrets for making the perfect Manakeesh bi Zaatar. She told me to be gentle with the dough, to let it rest and rise before baking, and to always sprinkle the zaatar mixture generously over the top.

As we placed the flatbreads into the hot oven, the smell of freshly baked bread and zaatar filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product. When the Manakeesh bi Zaatar emerged from the oven, golden brown and fragrant, my grandmother and I shared a moment of joy and pride as we sat down to enjoy our creation together.

From that day on, I knew that Manakeesh bi Zaatar would always hold a special place in my heart. Whenever I make it now, I am transported back to that kitchen in Beirut, surrounded by the love and wisdom of my grandmother. I have shared the recipe with my own children and grandchildren, passing on the tradition and the memories to the next generation.

The art of cooking is a gift that has been passed down through the ages, and I am grateful to my grandmother for instilling in me a love of food and a desire to learn and explore new recipes. The memory of that day in the kitchen with her will always bring a smile to my face, and I will continue to make Manakeesh bi Zaatar with joy and gratitude in my heart.