Manakeesh is a beloved Middle Eastern flatbread that’s a staple for breakfast or lunch. We’ve taken the traditional dough recipe and made it incredibly easy to recreate at home. Topped with a drizzle of olive oil and a generous sprinkle of za’atar, this savory bread is an irresistible treat that you’ll find yourself craving again and again!
This warm, fluffy flatbread will transport your taste buds to the Middle East with its mouthwatering combination of aromatic flavors of olive oil and za’atar. Whether you enjoy it on its own as a satisfying snack or paired with your favorite dips and spreads, Manakeesh is a delicacy that’s perfect for any occasion.
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What Is Manakeesh?
Manakeesh, also known as manakish, manaeesh, manaqish, فَطَايِر, in Arabic, or manousheh in the singular version, is a popular Middle Eastern flatbread that is most commonly served for breakfast but is also enjoyed for lunch. You’ll find the dish in three varieties including za’atar (like we’re making today), cheese, and lamb. They’re all made with the same dough base but contain different toppings, making their flavor truly unique.
Similar to pizza, Manakeesh is made by shaping the dough into flat, round discs. Then, small divots are made in the dough to hold the toppings. Once baked, the dish is enjoyed sliced or folded — and devoured by everyone!
What Is Za’atar?
A staple in Middle Eastern cooking and our kitchens, za’atar is a spice blend used in a wide variety of recipes like Za’tar Chicken, Za’atar Air Fryer Potato Wedges, Burrata with Roasted Tomatoes and Za’atar Pita, and this Manakeesh recipe!
Every region has a slightly different take on the blend. However, it almost always contains a combination of earthy-tasting dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, and marjoram. It’s easy to find in most spice sections of your local grocery store. Or, you can make your own with a recipe like this!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Traditionally, Manakeesh is made by creating a type of homemade bread dough. However, to save time and make this recipe super easy, we’re using a shortcut! Here’s everything you’ll need:
- Za’atar Seasoning – You can easily make your own za’atar seasoning, but we prefer to use a pre-made blend like this.
- Olive Oil – This combines with the za’atar, and helps it cling to the rolls, enhancing their savory flavor.
- Frozen Dinner Rolls – Our secret weapon, any plain, fluffy dinner rolls will work for the base of your Manakeesh!
How to Make Za’atar Manakeesh
Of course, if you want, you can go through the process of making your own dough. However, we’ve found that this recipe is just as delicious and infinitely easier to make!
- Prepare the Rolls. Arrange the frozen dinner rolls on a greased sheet pan, roughly 3 inches apart. Then, cover them with saran wrap, and place them in a warm place until they have doubled in size.
- Create the Seasoning. In a small bowl, combine the za’atar seasoning with oil.
- Shape the Dough. Gently pat the dinner rolls just until they are circular.
Important Note: Be careful not to flatten the dough out too much! You want them to be flat but not paper thin. Otherwise, they’re likely to overbake and burn.
- Bake. Brush the za’atar mixture on top of each disc of dough, and place them back on the baking sheet, leaving spacing between each roll. Bake in the oven just until the edges are slightly golden.
- Cool. Transfer the Manakeesh to a wire rack, and let it cool completely.
Muffin Option
- Prepare Rolls: Place a frozen dinner roll in each section of a muffin tray.
- Rise: Cover with a cloth, and let the rolls rise in a warm spot until they double in size, about 3-4 hours.
- Press & Season: Once risen, gently press down on each roll. Add 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and 2 teaspoons of zaatar on top of each roll.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F Bake the rolls for 14-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Manakeesh Common Questions
Manakeesh comes in various delicious forms! The most common toppings include za’atar mixed with olive oil, a blend of cheeses like Akkawi or mozzarella, and ground meat seasoned with spices. Some variations also feature labneh (strained yogurt) or vegetables.
Traditionally, manakeesh is baked in a wood-fired oven, which gives it a unique flavor and crispy texture. However, it’s also commonly baked in conventional ovens.
Of course, you can enjoy Manakeesh on its own. However, traditionally, they are served as part of a savory breakfast or lunch alongside cheese like halloumi or labne and fresh veggies. We also love to serve them alongside baked scrambled eggs or shakshuka!
Absolutely! While it’s a breakfast favorite, manakeesh is also enjoyed as a lunch option or snack throughout the day. Its versatility makes it great for any mealtime.
More Bread and Flatbread Recipes
Looking for more savory bread recipes? Dive into these mouthwatering options!
- Easy Focaccia Recipe with Tomatoes
- Garlic Caprese Bread
- Homemade Garlic Bread with Spinach and Artichokes
- Cheesy Garlic Bread Recipe
Za’atar Manakeesh Recipe
Ingredients
- 24 dinner rolls frozen
- ⅓ cup za’atar seasoning
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Brush a 13×18 baking sheet with olive oil. Set aside.
- Place the frozen dinner rolls 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Cover with saran wrap, and place in a warm, dry place for 3-4 hours or until the rolls have doubled in size.24 dinner rolls
- In the meantime, combine the za’atar seasoning and olive oil in a small bowl, whisking until smooth.⅓ cup za’atar seasoning, ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Using fingers, gently pat down the dinner rolls just until they are spread out. Be careful not to flatten them too much!
- Brush 1 tablespoon of the za’atar mixture on top of each roll, covering the surface completely.
- Place the dough on the greased baking sheet 2 inches apart.
- Bake 15-18 minutes or until the edges are beginning to turn golden brown.
- Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Notes
- 12 Rhodes frozen dinner rolls
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup zaatar seasoning
- Prepare Rolls: Place a frozen dinner roll in each section of a muffin tray.
- Rise: Cover with a cloth and let the rolls rise in a warm spot until they double in size, about 3-4 hours.
- Press & Season: Once risen, gently press down on each roll. Add 1/2 tablespoon olive oil and 2 teaspoons of zaatar on top of each roll.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F Bake the rolls for 14-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Love this, how can I do this with already made, say, pita bread or similar
You could just brush the za’atar mixture on top and toast them in the oven!
Xo,
Alia & Radwa