Manakish Lahmeh, commonly known as Meat Manakish, is a beloved Middle Eastern flatbread topped with a savory blend of minced meat, spices, and herbs. This delectable dish is particularly popular in Lebanese and Syrian cuisine, where it serves as a delicious breakfast or snack option. The dough is rolled out thin and generously layered with a mixture of ground lamb or beef, onions, and a medley of spices that create a flavor-packed experience. As noted by culinary experts, “the combination of warm, fresh bread and richly seasoned meat makes Manakish Lahmeh a favorite among food lovers.” Its popularity can be attributed to its taste, versatility, and the comfort it offers, making it a cherished staple in many households across the region. Whether enjoyed plain or with fresh vegetables and yogurt, Meat Manakish continues to win hearts and tantalize taste buds worldwide.
Manakish Lahmeh (Meat Manakish)
Manakish Lahmeh, or Meat Manakish, is a delightful Lebanese flatbread topped with a savory mixture of minced meat, spices, and herbs. This traditional dish is popular in the Middle East and is often enjoyed as a breakfast item or a snack. Manakish have their roots in Levantine cuisine and have been a beloved staple for centuries, often served in bakeries throughout Lebanon and surrounding countries.
Preparation
Preparing Manakish Lahmeh involves making a flavorful meat topping and a soft dough, followed by baking the assembled manakish to perfection. Here, we provide a detailed step-by-step recipe to guide you through the process of creating this delicious dish.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| For the Dough: | |
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Warm water | 1.5 cups |
| Active dry yeast | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| For the Meat Topping: | |
| Ground lamb or beef | 500 grams |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Allspice | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Pine nuts (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
Steps
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Meat Topping:
- In a large pan over medium heat, add the chopped onion. Sauté until translucent.
- Add the ground meat to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in the tomato paste, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- If using, add the pine nuts and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Assemble the Manakish:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Roll out each piece into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread a layer of the cooled meat mixture on top of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Manakish Lahmeh with a side of pickles or a fresh salad!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manakish Lahmeh?
Manakish Lahmeh is a popular Lebanese flatbread topped with spiced minced meat, usually served warm.
What is the main ingredient in Manakish Lahmeh?
The main ingredient is ground meat, commonly beef or lamb, mixed with spices and herbs.
How is Manakish Lahmeh traditionally served?
It is typically served warm, often with yogurt or fresh vegetables on the side.
Can Manakish Lahmeh be made vegetarian?
Yes, a vegetarian version can be made by replacing the meat with ingredients like mushrooms or cheese.
How long does it take to prepare Manakish Lahmeh?
Preparation usually takes about 30 minutes, with an additional 15-20 minutes for baking.
What spices are commonly used in Manakish Lahmeh?
Common spices include cumin, cinnamon, allspice, and sometimes nutmeg.
Is Manakish Lahmeh gluten-free?
No, traditional Manakish Lahmeh uses wheat flour for the dough, making it unsuitable for gluten-free diets.
What type of bread is used for Manakish Lahmeh?
A thin, round flatbread called dough or khubz is used as the base for Manakish Lahmeh.
Can Manakish Lahmeh be frozen?
Yes, it can be frozen after baking; just reheat before serving for the best texture.
Where did Manakish Lahmeh originate?
Manakish Lahmeh originates from Lebanon and is widely enjoyed in many Middle Eastern countries.
Is Manakish Lahmeh a common street food?
Yes, it is a popular street food item in Lebanon and other Middle Eastern regions.
Are there variations of Manakish Lahmeh?
Yes, variations exist with different toppings, including various meats, cheeses, or even vegetables.
What is the nutritional value of Manakish Lahmeh?
Manakish Lahmeh is high in protein but can vary in calories depending on portion size and ingredients used.
How do you eat Manakish Lahmeh?
It is typically eaten by hand, often folded or cut into pieces for easy consumption.
