Cheese Manakeesh

Manakeesh is a delicious Middle Eastern flatbread that can be topped with a variety of toppings like za'atar, cheese, or meats. The dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When making cheese manakeesh, Akkawi cheese is commonly used, but mozzarella or a mix of mozzarella and feta can work as well. If you prefer larger manakeesh, simply roll out the dough to a bigger size, but be mindful that the baking time may need a slight adjustment.

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Lebanese

Keyword cheesemanakeesh, lebanesecheesemanakeesh

Prep Time 25

Cook Time 30

Total Time 55

Servings 6

Ingredients

For the Dough:
5 cups flour
2 cups warm water
½ cup vegetable oil
2 tbsp instant yeast
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
For the Cheese Mix:
4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups shredded akkawi cheese
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or 1 tsp dried
⅓ tsp black seeds nigella seeds or sesame seeds

Instructions

Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of flour with warm water, yeast, sugar, and salt. Stir well, cover, and let rest for 10 minutes to allow the yeast to activate.
Once the mixture has doubled in size, add the vegetable oil and gradually add the remaining flour.
Add the last ½ cup of flour slowly while kneading, until you get a soft and smooth dough.
Cover the dough and let it rest for 30–45 minutes, until it rises.
Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, mix the mozzarella and akkawi cheese together.
Add parsley and black seeds (or sesame seeds) and mix well.
Shape the Manakeesh
Take small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Cover and let them rest for 5 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C).
Using a rolling pin, roll out each dough ball to your preferred thickness.
For thinner manakeesh, bake for less time.
For thicker manakeesh, bake slightly longer.
Assemble & Bake
Place the rolled-out dough on a baking tray.
Spread the cheese mixture evenly on top, leaving space around the edges.
Bake in the preheated oven at 500°F for about 5 minutes, until golden.
If you prefer a more golden top, turn on the broiler for 1–2 minutes.
Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot and enjoy with fresh vegetables, olives, or a cup of tea.

Notes

Dough Prep Ahead of Time: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before using.

Cheese Options: Akkawi cheese is traditional, but mozzarella or a blend of mozzarella and feta can be substituted.

Size Adjustment: You can make larger manakeesh by rolling the dough out to your desired size, adjusting baking time accordingly.

Reheating and Storage: If storing, manakeesh can last 3-4 days in the fridge or up to 1-2 months in the freezer. Reheat in the oven or skillet.

Enjoy making your manakeesh!