Manakish, a beloved Levantine dish, features flatbread topped with za'atar, cheese, or meat. Its origins trace back centuries, rooted in Middle Eastern culinary traditions. Today, it remains a staple in the region, cherished for its flavorful blend of herbs and spices atop fluffy bread.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 2/3 cup warm water

- Za'atar, cheese, or minced meat for topping

Method:

1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2. In another bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.

3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.

4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.

5. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

6. Punch down the dough and divide into equal portions. Roll each portion into a round flatbread.

7. Place the flatbreads on the prepared baking sheet.

8. Spread za'atar, cheese, or minced meat evenly over the flatbreads.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown.

10. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Manakish!

Nutrition Value:

1. All-purpose flour (2 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 455 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 95 grams

  - Protein: Approximately 12 grams

  - Fat: Approximately 1.5 grams

  - Sodium: Approximately 8 milligrams

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Nutritional benefits: Provides energy from carbohydrates, contains some protein, and is a good source of iron and B vitamins.

2. Active dry yeast (1 tablespoon):

  - Negligible caloric contribution

  - Negligible carbohydrates, protein, and fat

  - Sodium: Varies by brand but typically low

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Nutritional benefits: Contains B vitamins and is a source of protein.

3. Sugar (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 16 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 4 grams

  - Negligible protein and fat

  - Negligible sodium and cholesterol

  - Nutritional benefits: Provides quick energy but lacks significant nutrients.

4. Salt (1 teaspoon):

  - Negligible caloric contribution

  - Sodium: Approximately 2,300 milligrams

  - Negligible carbohydrates, protein, and fat

  - Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

  - Nutritional benefits: Necessary for electrolyte balance and flavor enhancement but should be consumed in moderation.

5. Olive oil (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 120 kcal

  - Fat: Approximately 14 grams (mainly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats)

  - Negligible carbohydrates and protein

  - Negligible sodium and cholesterol

  - Nutritional benefits: Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which are beneficial for heart health.

6. Warm water (2/3 cup):

  - Negligible caloric contribution

  - Negligible carbohydrates, protein, and fat

  - Negligible sodium and cholesterol

  - Nutritional benefits: Essential for hydration and proper bodily functions.

7. Za'atar, cheese, or minced meat for topping:

  - Nutritional values vary significantly depending on the topping chosen.

  - Za'atar typically contains calories from herbs and spices, with minimal carbohydrates, protein, and fat.

  - Cheese provides protein, calcium, and fat, with variations in calorie content depending on the type and amount used.

  - Minced meat contributes protein, fat, and essential nutrients such as iron and zinc, with calorie content varying based on the type of meat and portion size.

It's important to note that nutritional values may vary based on specific brands, recipes, and serving sizes.