Manakish
AI-generated image
Vegan Levantine

Manakish

A classic Levantine flatbread topped with fragrant za'atar, olive oil, and sesame, baked until the dough is crisp at the edges and tender in the center. Serve it warm for breakfast, a light meal, or a communal snack.

37 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Combine the flour, lukewarm water, instant yeast, sugar, and 5 g of the salt in a large bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and springy.
2
Rub the dough with 15 ml of the olive oil, cover the bowl, and let it rest in a warm, draft-free place for 60 to 75 minutes, until visibly puffy and nearly doubled.
3
Heat the oven to 250°C with a heavy baking sheet or pizza stone inside for at least 30 minutes. Mix the za'atar, sesame seeds, remaining salt, and 45 ml of olive oil into a thick, spreadable paste.
4
Divide the dough into four equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll or press each piece into a 15 cm round about 5 mm thick, keeping the center slightly thicker than the edge.
5
Transfer the rounds to parchment. Press shallow dimples across each surface with your fingertips, leaving a narrow border, then spread each with one-quarter of the za'atar mixture.
Dimpled rounds spread with za'atar topping before baking AI-generated image
6
Carefully slide the parchment onto the heated sheet or stone. Bake one batch at a time for 8 to 12 minutes, until the underside is set, the edges are golden, and small bubbles on the topping are lightly browned.
Golden baked manakish with za'atar topping AI-generated image
7
Cool the manakish for 3 minutes so the topping settles, then serve warm with fresh vegetables, olives, or labneh.

Why this recipe works

A slow, brief dough rise gives the flatbread enough flavor and elasticity without making it bready, while the generous oil-based za'atar topping carries the herbaceous, tangy, and nutty character of this Levantine staple.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

How to reheat it

Reheat directly from the refrigerator in a 200°C oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or from frozen for 10 to 12 minutes, until hot and crisp.

Nutrition / serving

534kcal
14.60 gprotein
76.77 gcarbs
19.80 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 20 Aug 2026 · updated 21 Aug 2026