Manakish Za'atar
Soft flatbreads topped with a fragrant za'atar and olive oil paste, baked until golden — the beloved breakfast bread of the Bekaa Valley.
Cook this hands-free
All 214 Sofra recipes are free in the app. This one includes step-by-step English voice narration, hands-free Cooking Mode, and the original oud music by Charbel Rouhana.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Instant dry yeast
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 cup Warm water
- 2 tbsp Olive oil (for dough)
- 4 tbsp Za'atar spice blend
- 5 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil (for topping)
Instructions
- Combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Make a well in the center.
- Pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
- Preheat oven to 230°C (450°F) with a baking stone or heavy baking sheet inside.
- Mix the za'atar and olive oil together in a bowl to form a thick, spreadable paste.
- Divide the dough into 6 equal balls. Roll each into a thin disc, about 20cm in diameter.
- Spread a generous tablespoon of the za'atar paste evenly over each disc, leaving a small border.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are golden and the topping is fragrant.
- Serve hot, folded in half or rolled up with fresh tomatoes, cucumber, and mint.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step voice narration guides you hands-free. Faten's Idlib recipes carry her own Syrian-Arabic narration. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manakish Za'atar?
Soft flatbreads topped with a fragrant za'atar and olive oil paste, baked until golden — the beloved breakfast bread of the Bekaa Valley.
Where is Manakish Za'atar from?
Manakish Za'atar comes from Lebanese Bekaa. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Manakish Za'atar vegetarian or vegan?
As written, Manakish Za'atar uses only plant-based ingredients, so it is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. Always double-check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.
What can I use instead of za'atar spice blend in Manakish Za'atar?
The za'atar spice blend called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Manakish Za'atar its authentic character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with Manakish Za'atar?
In a Lebanese breads spread, Manakish Za'atar is served warm — with dips like hummus, labneh, or za'atar and olive oil, or alongside any main dish.
Can I make Manakish Za'atar ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
Breads are best fresh and warm. If you make this ahead, let it cool completely, store it in an airtight bag or container, and gently rewarm before serving. Many flatbreads also freeze well.