Our Culture:
Manakish Za’atar is a cornerstone of authentic Jordanian culture, often referred to as the “breakfast of champions” and a ubiquitous sight at morning meals across the country. This savory pastry is deeply intertwined with daily life, commonly purchased from neighborhood bakeries or prepared fresh at home. The act of sharing a warm, freshly baked Manousheh embodies Jordanian hospitality and communal living. The za’atar spice blend itself, made from wild thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds, is a cherished national ingredient, foraged from the Jordanian hillsides and passed down through generations, making this dish a true taste of Jordanian heritage and tradition.
Nutrition Tip:
Fresh thyme has one of the highest antioxidant levels among herbs. It is also a rich source of an oil content called thymol, which has antiseptic and antifungal characteristics.
Ingredients:
2T | Active baker’s dry yeast
1 ½ cups | Unbleached all-purpose flour
½T | Coarse salt
½ cup | Warm water
3T | Olive oil
1 cup | Fresh Za’atar
Steps:
1- Dissolve yeast in a little warm water.
2- Combine flour, salt, olive oil, and warm water.
3- Stir until smooth. If the dough sticks to your fingers, stir in just enough flour to make the dough start to pull away from the side of the bowl.
4- Knead the dough until it is smooth, soft, and elastic, about 10 minutes.
5- Roll the dough into a medium-sized circle.
6- Pour the Za’atar mixed with olive oil onto the dough.
7- Cook in a 350-degree oven for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the dough is crispy and brown. Serve warm.