How to Make the Perfect Lebanese Manoushe
Lebanese · Medium · 100 min · 6 servings
Manoushe is Lebanons beloved breakfast flatbread, generously topped with a fragrant blend of zaatar and olive oil then baked or griddled until perfectly crisp at the edges. It is often enjoyed warm and folded over fresh vegetables, olives, or white cheese.
Why this recipe works
This Lebanese Manoushe recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 100 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 310 calories with 8g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 4 tablespoons dried zaatar herb blend
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the dough
Combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Gradually add the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the zaatar paste
In a small bowl, mix the zaatar herb blend with the olive oil until it forms a thick spreadable paste. The consistency should be easy to spread without being too runny or too thick. Taste and add a pinch of extra salt if desired.
Step 3: Shape and top the dough
Divide the risen dough into 6 equal balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball out into a thin round disc about 20 centimeters in diameter. Spread a generous tablespoon of the zaatar and olive oil paste evenly over the surface of each disc, leaving a small border around the edge.
Step 4: Cook the manoushe
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each topped flatbread for 3 to 4 minutes until the base is golden and the zaatar topping becomes fragrant and slightly caramelized. Serve immediately while warm, folded in half with fresh tomatoes and cucumber on the side.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- all-purpose flour → whole wheat flour for a nuttier and more nutritious version
- zaatar herb blend → a homemade mix of dried thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not allowing the dough to rise long enough, resulting in a dense and tough flatbread
- Spreading the zaatar paste too thinly, which reduces the bold flavor that makes manoushe so special
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 310 calories, 8g protein, 42g carbs, 13g fat, 3g fiber.
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