Description
To truly appreciate this recipe, it helps to understand what makes it so special. A standard manakish (often spelled man’ousheh in the singular) is a popular Levantine flatbread topped with olive oil and herb seasoning, meat, or cheese. It is traditionally baked at very high heat in a brick oven, creating a thin, crisp crust with a chewy interior. It is an iconic breakfast food across countries like Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine, usually enjoyed hot alongside fresh vegetables, olives, and warm tea.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3½ cups (440 g) all-purpose flour
- 2¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk
- ¼ cup (60 ml) warm water
- ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil
- 1 large egg
For the Filling
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tbsp za’atar seasoning
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
For Topping
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp za’atar
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add warm milk, warm water, olive oil, and egg.
- Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Mix mozzarella and feta together.
- In a separate small bowl, combine za’atar with olive oil to create a thick paste.
Step 3: Shape the Bread
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan.
- Punch down the risen dough.
- Divide into 24–30 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a small circle.
- Spread a little za’atar paste in the center.
- Add about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture.
- Pinch the edges closed to form a ball.
- Arrange the balls seam-side down in the prepared pan.
Step 4: Second Rise
- Cover loosely and let rise for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the tops with melted butter mixed with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with additional za’atar and sesame seeds.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Finish
- Brush with a little more melted butter after baking.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, weekend brunch, or family dinner, this Za’atar Cheese Manakish Pull-Apart Bread is sure to become a favorite. Every soft, cheesy bite is packed with the comforting flavors of the Middle East. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: MiddleEastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 320 kcal
Keywords: zaatar cheese pull apart bread, middle eastern cheese bread, zaatar cheese rolls