Zaatar Manakish: Homemade Pita Recipe For Fasting

Looking for a delicious and nutritious recipe that fits perfectly into your fasting routine? Let me introduce you to Zaatar Manakish – a Middle Eastern pita that's easy to make and perfect for the whole family. 🌿

🌟 Why You Will Love This Recipe

Zaatar Manakish, a traditional Middle Eastern flatbread, is a fantastic addition to your fasting menu. This recipe is not only straightforward but also packed with nutrition. Zaatar, a mix of herbs, sesame seeds, and sumac, is rich in antioxidants and provides a good dose of fiber. When paired with the homemade dough, you get a balanced meal with essential carbs and proteins, thanks to the high-quality flour and yeast. Kids love it too, making it an excellent choice for family meals during fasting periods. It was one of my mom's favorite healthy snacks growing up 🙂

📝 Ingredients

1 - Key Ingredients

For the Zaatar Bread Dough:

• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for shaping)
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil or any other vegetable oil (plus more for coating bowl)

For the Zaatar Spread:

• ⅓ cup za'atar blend
• ¼ cup avocado oil or any other vegetable oil

2 - Variations

Keeping your meals exciting while adhering to fasting rules is easier with these fun variations:

• Whole Wheat Dough: Swap out half of the white flour with whole wheat flour for a boost of fiber and nutrients. This tweak makes the flatbread even healthier without sacrificing taste.
• Spicy Zaatar Spice Kick: Love a bit of heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the zaatar mix for a spicy version that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.
• Garlic Infusion: For garlic lovers, mix minced garlic with avocado oil before adding it to the zaatar. This garlicky twist adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
• Cheese Manakish: If you’re not strictly fastingor if you want to make this recipe during non fasting days, spread some akawi cheese (or your favorite cheese) over the dough before baking. Cheese manakish is a popular variation in Middle Eastern cuisine, and the creamy cheese pairs perfectly with the zaatar’s tangy notes.

Experiment with these variations to find your favorite ways to enjoy this delicious Lebanese flatbread. Whether you're using a rolling pin on a lightly floured surface or letting your dough rise in a warm place, these twists will keep your meals fresh and exciting.

🥣 Instructions

1 - Step by Step Instructions

Make the Manakish Dough:

1. In a large bowl, activate the yeast in warm water; allow 10 minutes for it to proof.
2. Add salt, sugar, and oil to the bowl. Mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the flour into the wet ingredients and mix until the dough becomes shaggy.
4. Transfer to a floured surface and knead the dough by hand to form a tight ball.
5. Place the dough back into the same oil-coated bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and set aside at room temperature to rise for 45-60 minutes.

Make the Zaatar Spread:

1. Mix the zaatar with the oil in a small bowl until it forms a consistent and spreadable mixture.

Assemble and Bake:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal parts. Use your fingers to spread each piece into a round flat disc, about ¼ inch thick.
3. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of the zaatar mixture on each dough disc evenly. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the dough is light golden and puffs slightly.
5. Enjoy warm with cheese and vegetables, if desired.

2 - Cooking Tips & Serving Suggestions

• Perfect Spread: Use the back of a spoon to spread the zaatar mixture evenly on the dough.
• Golden Brown Finish: Ensure your oven is preheated to achieve that perfect golden brown crust.
• Serving Ideas: Serve with a side of homemade labneh or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For extra flavor, sprinkle some feta cheese on top.

🥡 Storage Instructions

1 - Making A Batch For Later

To make a larger batch:

1. Prepare and bake as instructed.
2. Once cooled, wrap each manakeesh in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.
3. For freezing, place wrapped manakeesh in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.

2 - Storing Leftovers

• In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
• In the Freezer: Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

3 - How to Reheat?

To reheat:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Place thawed manakeesh on a baking sheet.
3. Heat for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp.

🍴 Side Dishes

Pair your Zaatar Manakeesh with these delightful sides:

1. Homemade Hummus: A creamy dip that complements the zaatar perfectly.
2. Fattoush Salad: A fresh, tangy salad with crispy pita triangles.
3. Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet and smoky, a great addition to your meal.

Enjoy this delicious and nutritious Zaatar Manakeesh with your family during fasting periods. It's easy to make, healthy, and a hit with picky eaters. Happy cooking! 🌟

📝 Recipe Card

Frequently Asked Questions