180ml (3/4 cup) warm water (37-40°C or 98.6-104°F)
15ml (1 tbsp) olive oil, plus more for brushing
60g (1/4 cup) za’atar spice blend
15g (1 tbsp) sesame seeds
250g (1 cup) labneh
Pinch of sea salt
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, such as parsley or mint)
Instructions
Preparing the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour and 5g (1 tsp) salt. Stir in 7g (1 packet) instant yeast.
Gradually add 180ml (3/4 cup) warm water and 15ml (1 tbsp) olive oil, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place it into a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping and Baking the Bread
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into desired portions, usually 4-6 pieces.
Roll each piece into a disc about 1/4 inch thick on a floured surface. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the top of each disc with olive oil, sprinkle generously with 60g (1/4 cup) za’atar spice blend and 15g (1 tbsp) sesame seeds.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
Serving with Labneh
While the za’atar bread is baking, prepare your labneh by placing 250g (1 cup) labneh in a serving dish and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
Once the bread is done, let it cool slightly.
Serve the warm bread with labneh, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
Conclusion: Za’atar Bread with Labneh is not just a meal; it is an experience steeped in culture and flavor. The combination of freshly baked bread with the aromatic za’atar and creamy labneh is irresistible and a testament to Middle Eastern culinary tradition. Whether you serve it as a warm welcome to guests or as a peaceful solo indulgence, this dish will surely captivate your senses and leave a memorable impression on your palate. Enjoy the art of homemade bread with the zestful zest of za’atar, enveloped in the creamy richness of labneh.