How to Make the Perfect Lebanese Manakish

 

Introduction:

Manakish are a type of flatbread that is popular in Lebanon. They are typically topped with cheese, meat, or vegetables, and are a popular breakfast or snack food.

This article will teach you how to make the perfect Lebanese manakish, from start to finish. The recipe is based on a traditional Lebanese recipe, but it has been adapted to make it easier to follow.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for brushing

1 cup warm water

Toppings of your choice (see below)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.

Add the olive oil and water, and mix until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

Cover the dough with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Punch down the dough, and divide it into 12 equal pieces.

Roll out each piece of dough into a 6-inch circle.

Brush the top of each circle with olive oil.

Top each circle with your desired toppings.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips:

For a crispier crust, brush the tops of the manakish with olive oil before baking.

To make your own toppings, you can use any combination of cheese, meat, or vegetables. Some popular toppings include:

Labneh (strained yogurt)

Za'atar (a Middle Eastern spice blend)

Shawarma

Spinach

Tomatoes

Peppers

Variations:

Sweet Manakish: Top the manakish with sugar, cinnamon, and honey.

Ham and Cheese Manakish: Top the manakish with ham, cheese, and onions.

Vegetable Manakish: Top the manakish with your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, tomatoes, and peppers.

Conclusion:

With these tips, you'll be able to make the perfect Lebanese manakish every time. So get cooking and enjoy!