Manakish (Middle Eastern Flat Bread)

Original recipe makes 5

Ingredients

• 1 cup lukewarm water
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp active dry yeast 7 grams (or 25% less instant yeast powder)
• 3 cups plain all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup plain yogurt or oil

Directions

1. Add the water, sugar, and yeast to a small bowl, mix well and then allow it to stand for between 5-10 minutes for the yeast to activate. It should froth up and become quite bubbly during this time.
2. Combine the sifted flour and salt in a large bowl.
3. Add the yeast mixture and yogurt to the bowl, mix into a rough dough, and then knead for around 10 minutes until you have a smooth, elastic dough. When poked with a finger, the dough should bounce back again – if it doesn't, knead it a little longer.
4. Form the dough into a rough ball and cover lightly with oil, then place back in the bowl. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or cling film and place it in a warm place to prove for between 45 minutes to an hour. During this time, it should double in size.
5. Preheat the oven as hot as it will go.
6. Divide the dough into 5 pieces, shape each piece into a ball, and roll flat. Dimple the dough all over with your fingers to make more space for topping and to prevent the dough from puffing up too much.
7. Top the dough with your toppings and transfer to the over for 5--6 minutes.

Notes

• Feel free to season the dough as preferred depending on the recipe; Italian seasoning, za’atar, garlic, and onion powder, etc.
• To use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast, reduce the amount by 25%