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Authentic Lebanese Manakish Recipe- A Taste of Mediterranean Tradition

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    ChefPandas
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🍽️ About This Dish

Manakish, a popular flatbread dish originating from Lebanon, holds a significant place in Lebanese cuisine and culture. Often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack, Manakish is a versatile dish that can be topped with various ingredients, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

🌿 Ingredients Overview

  • Dough (local: عجينة): All-purpose flour, yeast, water, olive oil, salt, sugar
  • Za'atar (local: زعتر): Thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, salt
  • Cheese (local: جبنة): Akkawi or feta cheese
  • Meat (local: لحم): Ground lamb or beef (optional)
  • Vegetables (local: خضروات): Tomatoes, olives, mint (optional)

✨ What Makes It Special

Manakish showcases various regional variations, with toppings ranging from the classic Za'atar to meat or cheese options. This dish reflects Lebanon's culinary diversity and the importance of fresh, high-quality ingredients in Mediterranean cooking traditions.

📝 Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp Za'atar spice mix
  • 1/2 cup Akkawi or feta cheese, crumbled
  • Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, olives, ground lamb or beef

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. In a bowl, mix yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough until smooth, then cover and let it rise for 1-2 hours.
  3. Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Divide the dough into small balls and roll each into a flat disc.
  4. Spread Za'atar mix on one disc, cheese on another, and meat/vegetables on the rest.
  5. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
  6. Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of Lebanon.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 20 minutes
  • Rising time: 1-2 hours
  • Cooking: 10-15 minutes

🥂 Beverage Pairing

Pair your Manakish with a refreshing cup of Lebanese mint tea or a traditional yogurt drink like Ayran. For a more indulgent experience, enjoy it with a glass of Arak, an anise-flavored spirit popular in Lebanon.

💭 Chef's Notes

  • For an extra touch of authenticity, consider using a traditional wood-fired oven to bake your Manakish.
  • Experiment with different toppings to suit your taste preferences while honoring the dish's Lebanese roots.

📦 Storage

Store any leftover Manakish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy the flavors once again.

Embrace the flavors of Lebanon with this authentic Manakish recipe, a delightful taste of Mediterranean tradition that brings people together through its rich history and diverse flavors.