In Malaysia, we have all sorts of bread and Naan. For instance, Roti Canai, Chapati, Roti Tisu, Tandoori Naan and many more. Even though our staple food is rice or noodles, bread or flour-based dishes are still loved by the locals.
In the Eastern Europe continent, the people there enjoy a type of bread-like dish which is known as Manakeesh. Manakeesh is basically a Levantine dish consisting of a thick layer of dough, topped with different toppings and herbs. This dish is somewhat similar to a pizza, but I do think it is identical to our Roti dishes.
The Origins Of Manakeesh
Manakeesh originated from the region of Levant. For those that have not heard of the place, Levant is actually a large region in the Eastern Mediterranean, now known as Syria.
In short, Levant is basically a historical region of Syria. Manakeesh was originated from this area since centuries ago.
In fact, Manakeesh is the plural form of the dish, and the singular term is Manakish. However, there are a lot of ways to call it. Certain areas refer to this dough dish as Manaqish or Manaeesh, depending on the languages used.
Traditionally, Manakeesh is usually prepared by women in the morning. They would bake the dough in a communal oven early in the mornings so that the dish would be ready for breakfast for the household.
Classic Toppings Of Manakeesh
Typically, Manakeesh is topped with herbs like thymes, cheese or ground meat. Sometimes, in certain communities, Manakeesh is eaten sliced or folded. Generally, this dish is eaten for either breakfast or lunch due to its high carbohydrate content. Lighter meals are usually served for dinner.
The most common ingredient used for Manakeesh is herbs and spices. Middle Eastern communities love to add herbs in their dishes. Therefore, Manakeesh is often coated with lots of herbs.
This includes thyme, oregano and marjoram. The herbs are then mixed with toasted sesame seeds, salt and other spices like cumin or sumac.
Usually, Manakeesh is coated in olive oil before baking in the oven. This gives an aromatic fragrance and is served with other meaty toppings.
As for the cheese used to make Manakeesh, there are three types of cheese which are commonly used. They are Akkawi, Sfatit and Kashkaval. The cheese is mixed in Manakeesh to further enhance its flavour.
Other than ground beef, Manakeesh can be paired with minced lamb as well. This topping is popular for lunch because it is very filling. It is usually mixed with diced tomatoes and vegetable oil. Sometimes, people use it to make into tomato minced lamb salsa.
The other type of toppings used for Manakeesh is chilli. Even though Eastern European countries do not commonly have spice flavours in their cuisine, chilli is a popular topping to add on a manakeesh.
For those who prefer the vegetarian style, Manakeesh can be paired with spinach as well. Spinach has a high mineral content, and it is so commonly found, it has become a go-to ingredient for Manakeesh.
Where To Find Manakeesh?
Manakeesh is extremely easy to make. Since you only need to pair the ingredients with a layer of thick dough, it is not hard to prepare at all!
If you love to create your own version of Manakeesh, you may do it yourself. Other than that, there are plenty of Middle Eastern cuisine restaurants in Malaysia. Head over to one and fix your cravings today!