🧾Ingredients

• 3 cup All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Warm water
• 2¼ tsp Active dry yeast
• 1 tsp Granulated sugar
• 1 tsp Salt
• 3 tbsp Olive oil
• 250 g Akkawi cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and crumbled feta)
• 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 tsp Nigella seeds (optional)

👨‍🍳Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.

2. 2

   Add the flour, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.

3. 3

   Lightly grease a clean bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

4. 4

   While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese topping. If using Akkawi cheese, soak it in water for 30 minutes, changing the water once, to reduce its saltiness. Drain and squeeze out excess water. Shred or crumble the cheese into a bowl. Add a drizzle of olive oil, and optional chopped parsley and nigella seeds, mixing well. If using mozzarella and feta, simply mix them together with a drizzle of olive oil.

5. 5

   Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Lightly grease two large baking sheets. Gently punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten each ball with your hands or a rolling pin into a thin, approximately 6-8 inch (15-20 cm) round. Place the rounds on the prepared baking sheets.

6. 6

   Evenly spread a generous amount of the cheese mixture over each dough round, leaving a small border around the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You may need to rotate the baking sheets halfway through for even baking.

7. 7

   Remove the Manakeesh from the oven and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed hot, perhaps with a side of fresh mint, olives, or tomatoes.