Cracked wheat mana’esh (flatbread with za’atar)
Growing up, we called this flatbread with a thick topping of za’atar “Armenian pizza.” Here is a California version of this Middle Eastern staple featuring whole-grain flour, cracked wheat, good olive oil and the fresh herb za’atar. Hot off the griddle or grill with a spoonful of lebni (kefir cheese), and you’re pretty much transported. This version, topped with a fried egg and a small handful of parsley, is Sunday brunch worthy.
From the story: Love za’atar? Try making the addictive Middle Eastern spice blend at home
In a medium bowl, pour the boiling water over the bulgur and set aside until the water is completely absorbed and the bulgur has cooled to room temperature, about 1 hour. (This step can be done 1 day ahead. Cover loosely and set aside at cool room temperature.)
In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm water, yeast and sugar. Set aside until the mixture is foamy, about 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together both flours along with the salt. Add the yeast mixture and bulgur and stir until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a very lightly floured surface and knead until smooth, about 5 minutes.
Brush a medium bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat lightly with olive oil. Cover the bowl with a clean dish towel and set aside in a warm, draft-free area until dough doubles in volume, about 1 hour. Punch the dough down and knead briefly. Divide the dough into 8 equal rounds, about 3 1/2 ounces each. (The dough can be made ahead of time. Wrap each dough round in plastic and refrigerate up to 3 days. Unwrap the dough as needed, giving it time to warm up before using.) Cover the rounds with plastic wrap and set aside until slightly puffy, about 45 minutes.
Heat a griddle or grill over medium-high heat. Combine the oil and garlic in a bowl. Roll a piece of dough out on a lightly floured surface to a 6- to 7-inch round. Brush each round with the garlic oil and place, oiled side down, on the griddle and brush the top with garlic oil. Cook until lightly browned on the bottom, about 3 minutes. Turn the flatbread and brush with garlic oil and sprinkle with za’atar, about 1 tablespoon. Cook until lightly browned on the bottom, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board. Cut into wedges and serve with labneh.
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