Lebanese Za'atar Flatbread

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water
• 3 tablespoons za'atar spice blend 3 tablespoons za'atar spice blend
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for topping) 2 tablespoons olive oil (for topping)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the olive oil and warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a dough forms.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles and divide it into 4 equal portions.
7. 7.
   Roll out each portion into a round or oval shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
8. 8.
   Transfer the flattened dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. 9.
   Brush each flatbread with olive oil and sprinkle a generous amount of za'atar spice blend on top.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the flatbreads are golden brown and crispy.
11. 11.
    Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Olive oil — Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Za'atar spice blend — You can either make your own za'atar blend or purchase it from Middle Eastern grocery stores. Ensure the blend is fresh and aromatic for the best results.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced flavor, toast the sesame seeds before adding them to the za'atar blend.
• Experiment with different toppings such as olives, tomatoes, or feta cheese to add variety to your flatbread.
• Serve the Za'atar Flatbread warm for the best taste and texture.
• If you prefer a thinner crust, roll out the dough to your desired thickness.
• Leftover flatbread can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Za'atar Flatbread as a standalone snack or as part of a mezze platter. It pairs well with creamy labneh, fresh vegetables, and pickles.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Za'atar Flatbread on a wooden board or a colorful plate. Sprinkle some extra za'atar on top for an added visual appeal. Serve it alongside a small bowl of olive oil for dipping.