Manakish pizza, Middle Eastern pizza, or Lebanese pizza is a traditional flatbread dish in Lebanon. It features a soft, fluffy dough topped with flavorful seasonings and melted cheese. Manakish, often enjoyed with zaatar and cheese, is a popular choice for breakfast or brunch in the Middle East and can be savored alongside a warm cup of labneh.
Key Takeaways:
- Manakish pizza is a traditional Middle Eastern flatbread dish.
- It is made with a soft, fluffy dough topped with flavorful seasonings.
- Manakish is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or brunch with a warm cup of tea.
- It is a versatile dish that can be customized with different toppings and flavors, akin to crafting a personalized pizza recipe.
- Manakish holds cultural significance and is often enjoyed during communal gatherings and special occasions.
Contents
Recipe for Lebanese Pizza Dough
Making the dough for Manakish is a simple and rewarding process. Here’s how to make the perfect dough recipe for Manakish. Manakish dough:
- Gather the ingredients: To make Manakish dough, you will need the following ingredients:
- All-purpose flour
- Bread flour
- Instant yeast
- Sugar
- Milk powder
- Kosher salt
- Yogurt
- Oil
- Warm water
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, milk powder, and kosher salt. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add the wet ingredients for the dough recipe: In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, oil, and warm water. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Transfer it onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time, and if it feels too wet, add a tablespoon of flour until you reach the desired consistency.
- Rise the dough: Place the dough in a well-oiled bowl, coating it with oil on all sides. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm and dark place for about 45 minutes to an hour or until it has doubled.
Once the Manakish dough has risen, it is ready to be shaped, topped, and baked into delicious Middle Eastern flatbreads.
How to Make Manakish Toppings
The dough ball should be perfectly rounded before being flattened for the Manakish. Toppings for Manakish consist of za’atar and cheese. Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend that typically includes dried thyme, toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and other spices. To make the zaatar Manakish za’atar topping, mix the za’atar spice with olive oil to make a paste-like consistency.
The cheese topping is typically made with akawi cheese, but mozzarella cheese can be used for a richer taste. Akawai is a mild white cheese similar in texture to mozzarella or feta. If akawi cheese is not available, you can use a combination of shredded mozzarella and feta. Mix the shredded mozzarella cheese until well combined to make the cheese topping.
How to Prepare and Bake Middle Eastern Manakish
Once the dough has risen, it is time to prepare and bake the delicious Manakish. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Lebanese flatbread, often recognized as a variant of zaatar bread.:
- Divide the risen dough into small balls.
- On a floured surface, roll each ball into a circle of about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet or a pizza peel if using a pizza stone.
- Before topping the dough, use your fingertips to dimple it. This helps prevent excessive rising during baking.
- Spread the za’atar and cheese toppings onto the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
- Now, it’s time to bake! Preheat your pizza oven to a high temperature, around 450°F (230°C).
- Place the Manakish in the hot oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, depending on the size of the flatbread.
- Keep an eye on the dough; once it turns golden and the cheese has melted, your Manakish is ready!
Baking Manakish is a straightforward process that results in a delightful and flavorful Lebanese flatbread. The perfectly baked dough, fragrant za’atar, and melted cheese create a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds to the Middle East.
Serving and Enjoying Manakeesh
Regarding Middle Eastern pizza recipes and enjoying Manakish, the possibilities are endless. This Middle Eastern delight is traditionally served for breakfast or brunch, making it an ideal way to start your day. Picture yourself sitting at the table, the warm aroma of freshly baked Manakish filling the air.
How do you serve this delicious dish? One popular option is pairing Manakish with a steaming hot mug of tea, a staple beverage in Middle Eastern breakfasts. Combining the aromatic tea and the flavorful Manakish creates a harmonious start to your morning.
But the enjoyment doesn’t stop there. Manakish can also be served as part of a mezze platter, a selection of small dishes perfect for sharing or appetizers. The mezze platter provides an opportunity to try an array of tasty Middle Eastern flavors, and the Manakish adds a delightful touch to the spread.
- Prepare a plate filled with fresh, vibrant vegetables, such as juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant mint leaves. The freshness of the vegetables complements the savory Manakish, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
- Now, it’s time to arrange the Manakish on the sheet pan. Cut it into small wedges or squares and place them alongside the colorful vegetables. This presentation looks appealing and makes it easy for everyone to grab a piece and enjoy.
Remember that Manakish is best enjoyed warm. The soft, fluffy dough and the melty cheese are at their prime when they are still fresh from the oven, so be sure to serve it promptly to savor the full experience.
Whether you enjoy Manakish as a standalone breakfast or include it in a mezze platter, one thing is certain—each bite will transport you to the vibrant streets of the Middle East. So gather your loved ones, indulge in the delicious flavors, and create lasting memories around the table.
Variations and Customizations of Manakish
While za’atar and cheese are the most common toppings for Manakish, there are endless possibilities for variations and customizations to suit your taste preferences. Variations of Manakish allow you to explore different flavors and experiment with unique combinations of ingredients.
To start customizing your Manakish toppings, you can customize the za’atar seasoning. In addition to the traditional za’atar blend, consisting of dried thyme, toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and other spices, you can create your own homemade za’atar mix by incorporating additional herbs and spices you enjoy. This allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking and create a unique za’atar topping for your Manakish.
Another way to add variety to your Manakish is by exploring alternative cheeses. While akawi cheese is the traditional choice, you can experiment with different types of cheese to elevate the flavor profile. Consider using halloumi, a firm and salty cheese that adds a deliciously chewy texture, or crumbled feta for its tangy and creamy taste. Each cheese brings its distinct flavor and texture to the Manakish, allowing you to create a personalized culinary experience.
Furthermore, you can incorporate additional ingredients, such as pizza toppings, to enhance the flavor. To improve the taste and texture of your Manakish. Some popular options include sliced tomatoes, olives, fresh herbs like mint or parsley, or spicy peppers for an extra kick. These additions offer a vibrant burst of flavors and complexity to your Manakish, making each bite a delightful experience.
Feel free to get creative and think outside the box when customizing your Manakish. With endless possibilities for variations and customizations, you can genuinely make this traditional Middle Eastern dish your own.
The History and Cultural Significance of Manakish
Manakish holds a rich history and cultural significance in Middle Eastern cuisine. Originating in Lebanon, this traditional dish has been a staple in the region for centuries. But it’s not just the delicious flavors that make Manakish unique. It has deep roots in communal gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions, symbolizing togetherness and shared experiences.
The process of making Manakish is often passed down through generations, preserving the traditional baking techniques and flavors. This conventional approach adds an authentic touch to each batch of Manakish and keeps the cultural heritage alive.
Today, Manakish continues to be a beloved dish in the Middle East. It brings people of all ages together to enjoy its mouthwatering taste and appreciate its cultural significance. Whether it’s a casual breakfast or a festive gathering, Manakish holds a special place in the hearts and palates of Middle Eastern communities.
Experience the history and cultural significance of Manakish through its flavors and traditions. With each bite of this iconic dish, taste the essence of traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, often highlighted by dishes like Manakish and its various recipes, including the cheese Manakish recipe.
Tips for Making the Perfect Manakish
To ensure the best results when making Manakish, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Accurate Measurements: Measure the ingredients accurately, especially the flour. Too much or too little can affect the texture of the dough.
- Dust with Flour: When rolling out the dough, dust the surface and rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking.
- Combat Sticky Dough: If the dough is too sticky, lightly oil your hands and the work surface to make it easier to handle.
- Preheat the Oven: When baking the Manakish, preheat the oven to a hot temperature and use a sheet pan for an even bake. This will ensure the dough rises appropriately and the toppings are cooked evenly.
- Cool before Serving: After baking, allow the Manakish to cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
By following these tips, including the cheese Manakish recipe, you can create delicious Manakish with the perfect texture, flavor, and presentation!
Conclusion
Manakish is a mouthwatering Middle Eastern delicacy that combines the best pizza and flatbread, akin to an Arabic pizza recipe. With its soft and fluffy dough, flavorful za’atar topping, and melty mozzarella cheese, Manakish has become a beloved dish enjoyed across the Middle East and beyond.
What sets Manakish apart is its versatility. Whether you savor it as a delectable breakfast, serve it as part of a mezze platter, or enjoy it as a standalone meal, Manakish, a variation of a Middle Eastern pizza, offers a delightful culinary experience. Making Manakish at home lets you personalize the toppings to suit your taste buds.
While the classic combination of za’atar and cheese is a tried-and-true favorite, don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices, herbs, and cheeses. Let your creativity shine, and create your signature Manakish to impress your friends and family.
So, why not take a delicious journey to the Middle East with Manakish? With its aromatic flavors and delightful textures, Manakish will transport you to the vibrant streets of Lebanon and beyond. Embrace the flavors of the Middle East and savor every bite of this lovely delicacy.
