Fragrant Levantine Zaatar Bread (Printable)

Golden flatbread flavored with zaatar, sesame seeds, and olive oil, ideal as an appetizer or snack.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dough

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast
03 - 1 teaspoon sugar
04 - 3/4 teaspoon salt
05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
06 - 2/3 cup warm water, plus more as needed

→ Zaatar Topping

07 - 1/4 cup zaatar spice blend
08 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
09 - 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

# Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Stir in olive oil and gradually add warm water until a soft dough forms.
02 - Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
03 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and allow to rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in volume.
04 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
05 - Divide dough into 4 equal pieces. Shape each into a ball, then flatten to rounds approximately 6 to 7 inches in diameter. Arrange on baking sheets.
06 - Combine zaatar, toasted sesame seeds, and extra virgin olive oil in a small bowl to form a paste.
07 - Evenly spread the zaatar mixture over each dough round, leaving a small border without topping at the edges.
08 - Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are golden and crisp.
09 - Allow to cool slightly and serve warm or at room temperature alongside labneh, olives, or fresh vegetables.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in just over an hour and impresses everyone at the table without fuss or stress.
  • The zaatar topping is so aromatic and flavorful that even the simplest serving feels like a small celebration.
  • You can make a batch and serve them warm, room temperature, or even the next day with hummus or labneh.
02 -
  • If your dough feels too sticky after adding the water, resist the urge to dump in more flour; instead, knead it gently for an extra minute and trust the process.
  • Warming your bowl or wrapping it in a warm towel speeds up the rise noticeably, especially if your kitchen runs cool—I learned this the hard way on a winter morning.
  • The zaatar blend varies between brands, so taste it before you commit the full amount; some blends are more assertive than others.
03 -
  • Let shaped dough rest for 10 minutes before topping if you prefer a fluffier, more open crumb—this small pause makes a noticeable difference.
  • Use an oven thermometer to verify your temperature; ovens can be deceptive, and accurate heat ensures even baking and that perfect golden crust.
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