Learn how to make traditional Lebanese Za'atar Bread with this easy recipe. This delicious bread is topped with a flavorful blend of za'atar spice, olive oil, and sesame seeds. It's perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. The dough is soft, chewy, and infused with the fragrant aroma of za'atar. Whip up a batch of this Lebanese classic and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup za'atar spice
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (for topping)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, olive oil, and warm water. Mix well until the ingredients come together to form a sticky dough.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if necessary to prevent sticking.
- Place the dough back into the bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles and transfer it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your hands to flatten and stretch the dough into a rectangular shape.
- In a small bowl, mix the za'atar spice with olive oil to form a spreadable paste. Spread this mixture evenly over the flattened dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the za'atar mixture.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
- Enjoy this Lebanese Za'atar Bread warm or at room temperature with your favorite dips, spreads, or as an accompaniment to Middle Eastern dishes.
Interesting Facts
Za'atar is a popular Middle Eastern spice blend that typically includes thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac. It has a unique and aromatic flavor.
Lebanese Za'atar Bread is often enjoyed with labneh (strained yogurt) or olive oil.
Za'atar has been used as a culinary herb since ancient times and is believed to have health benefits such as improving digestion and boosting the immune system.