Imagine biting into a warm, fragrant flatbread that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Beirut, where the aroma of fresh herbs and olive oil fills the air. Manoushe Zaatar is not just a recipe; it's a cultural experience that combines the rich traditions of Lebanese cuisine with a simple yet incredibly delicious preparation. Whether you're a culinary adventurer or someone looking to spice up your breakfast routine, this authentic Lebanese flatbread will revolutionize your cooking and take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Lebanese
Serves: 4 flatbreads
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup zaatar spice mix
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Add 1 teaspoon of instant yeast to the flour mixture and stir until combined.
- Gradually pour in 3/4 cup of warm water, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- Form the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat the surface with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for about 15 minutes to allow it to rise slightly.
- While the dough is resting, prepare the zaatar mixture. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of zaatar spice mix with 1/4 cup of olive oil. Mix well until the zaatar is fully incorporated into the oil.
- After the resting period, divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball.
- On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll each ball into a flat circle, about 8-10 inches in diameter. Aim for an even thickness throughout.
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, place one flatbread in the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it puffs up and develops golden brown spots.
- Repeat the cooking process for the remaining flatbreads, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
- Once all flatbreads are cooked, remove them from the skillet and brush each one generously with the prepared zaatar and olive oil mixture while they are still warm.
- Serve the manoushe zaatar warm, either as a snack, appetizer, or alongside a meal. Enjoy!
Tips
- Water Temperature Matters: Use lukewarm water (around 110°F) to activate the yeast perfectly without killing it.
- Kneading Technique: Don't rush the kneading process. A well-kneaded dough ensures a soft, elastic flatbread with a perfect texture.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the dough to rest and rise slightly. This helps develop flavor and improves the bread's overall structure.
- Heat Control: When cooking the flatbread, maintain a medium-high heat to achieve those beautiful golden-brown spots without burning.
- Fresh Zaatar is Key: If possible, use freshly ground zaatar spice mix for the most vibrant and authentic flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Manoushe is best enjoyed warm, right after brushing with the zaatar-olive oil mixture, to experience its maximum flavor and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
