National Dish Lebanon: Zaatar Manakish (Recipe)
In this article
Wake up to the aromas of the eastern Mediterranean with Zaatar Manakish, Lebanon’s beloved morning flatbread. Soft, freshly baked dough is brushed with fruity olive oil and showered in fragrant zaatar, a herb-and-spice blend that perfumes every bite. Whether you serve it for breakfast, as a midday snack or as part of a generous spread for guests, this simple bread carries the warmth and hospitality of a Lebanese kitchen straight to your table.
About Zaatar Manakish
Zaatar Manakish is a much-loved Lebanese dish that holds a special place for locals and visitors alike. This traditional flatbread is made with a distinctive blend of zaatar, an aromatic spice mix, and good-quality olive oil. The pairing of the savoury bread with the fresh, herby tang of the zaatar gives the dish its unmistakable character. Served at breakfast, enjoyed as a snack or set out for a party, Zaatar Manakish brings the flavours of Lebanon directly to your plate.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g plain flour
- 150 ml water
- 1 tsp dried yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 3–4 tbsp zaatar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for zaatar manakish, it pays to pay attention to the quality of what you buy. The flour should be fresh and of good quality to give you the best results. Zaatar is widely available in Middle Eastern and international grocery shops, or you can even blend your own by combining thyme, sumac and sesame seeds. The olive oil should be extra virgin so its full flavour comes through, so look out for a good-quality bottle.
Preparing the dish
Proper preparation is key to a successful Zaatar Manakish. Begin by having all your ingredients within easy reach to make the process run smoothly. Make sure the water is lukewarm so the yeast can activate properly. It is also worth lining a baking tray with parchment paper, so the bread does not stick once it goes into the oven.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a bowl, combine the flour with the salt.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the yeast, sugar and lukewarm water and leave for 5 minutes until it foams.
- Add the yeast mixture to the flour and knead well until you have a smooth dough.
- Cover the dough and leave it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
- Roll out the risen dough on a floured surface and shape it as you like, round or rectangular.
- Brush the surface with olive oil and scatter generously with zaatar.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 220°C for about 10–15 minutes, until golden brown.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of Zaatar Manakish, you can use alternatives such as rice flour or almond flour. Just make sure your other ingredients are gluten-free too. Happily, this is one bread that is naturally suited to a lactose-free diet, as it relies on olive oil rather than butter and contains no dairy products at all. The flavour stays every bit as delicious.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
The recipe for Zaatar Manakish is naturally vegan and vegetarian. Every ingredient is plant-based and there are no animal products to worry about, which makes it an excellent choice for anyone who prefers plant-focused cooking. Serve it as you please with fresh vegetables or a vegan spread to add extra flavours and textures — much like the wholesome Loubiyeh bil Zeit you might offer alongside it.
More tips and tricks
A few handy tips for making Zaatar Manakish include using freshly ground spices for a more intense flavour. Experiment with the amount of zaatar to find the perfect seasoning for your own taste. Make sure the oven is properly preheated for the best baking results. You can also add cheese such as feta or mozzarella for a more substantial, savoury version, in the spirit of the Akawi Cheese Rolls.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The Zaatar Manakish recipe is wonderfully adaptable. You can flavour the dough with different herbs or spices to give it a personal touch. You might also top the bread with various vegetables, such as spinach or tomatoes, before baking. The zaatar blend itself can be varied too — use more of the individual elements to try out different flavour profiles.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have certain ingredients to hand, there are plenty of alternatives for Zaatar Manakish. The flour, for example, can be replaced with a mix of wholemeal flour and oat flour to add more fibre. If you have no zaatar in the cupboard, improvise with a blend of thyme, sesame and oregano. The olive oil can also be swapped for another plant oil, such as rapeseed oil, without changing the overall taste too much.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks goes beautifully with Zaatar Manakish. A freshly brewed mint tea or an Arabic lemonade make refreshing companions. A glass of yoghurt drink, such as cooling ayran, is also a lovely choice for balancing the herby flavours. If you fancy something different, try a light, crisp wheat beer or a fruity white wine to round out the meal.
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present Zaatar Manakish can do a great deal for the overall impression of the dish. Serve the breads on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a splash of colour. If you make several varieties, arrange them side by side in different shades for variety. You might also set out small bowls of dips, such as hummus or tahini, to complement the bread — the kind of mezze spread that also welcomes a smoky Baba Ghanouj bi Lahme.
A bit of history
Zaatar Manakish has a long history in Lebanese cooking and is well known far beyond Lebanon’s borders. Manakish is not only a traditional breakfast dish but also a symbol of home and community. It is often shared with family and plays a central role in many social gatherings. The distinctive zaatar blend reflects the diversity and rich flavours of Lebanese cuisine, passed down through generations.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Zaatar Manakish
In short, Zaatar Manakish is a tasty and versatile dish that embodies the food culture of Lebanon. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as a snack, the combination of aromatic zaatar and crisp bread is sure to win you over. With a few simple tweaks you can adapt the recipe to your own preferences and get creative. Do not miss out on this delicious experience — bring the taste of Lebanon into your own kitchen.
