manoushe

Manoushe, also spelled manakish or manousheh, is a traditional Levantine flatbread that is topped before baking with a variety of ingredients. It is widely eaten as a breakfast item or street food in parts of the Levant, including Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Jordan, and Israel, and is often prepared in bakeries and home kitchens. The most iconic version is manoushe bi za'atar, topped with a thyme-sesame mixture and olive oil.

Dough is usually a simple leavened bread made from flour, water, yeast, salt, and a small amount of olive oil; some recipes include yogurt or semolina. After mixing, the dough rests briefly, is divided into portions, rolled into discs or ovals, brushed with olive oil, and topped before baking. Manoushe is traditionally baked in a very hot oven, often a wood-fired oven or a clay oven, until the crust is blistered and golden.

Toppings vary widely. Za'atar is traditional and most common, combining thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and olive oil. Other popular toppings include soft cheeses such as akkawi or mozzarella; sometimes halloumi; ground meat mixtures (lahm bi ajin); vegetables like onions, peppers, or greens. A cheese-and-spinach version and a tomato-and-herb version appear regionally as well.

Cultural note: Manoushe is commonly eaten warm, folded and eaten on the go or at family meals, often with tea or coffee. It is sold by street vendors, bakeries, and at home, and variations exist across communities in the Levant. It is also a component of mezze or breakfast offerings in many households.