Za'atar Swirls

In Lebanon, manoush bread is a beloved breakfast tradition, with its warm, fragrant flatbreads topped with a generous spread of za'atar and olive oil. In this recipe for Za'atar swirls, the rich, earthy flavors of Lebanon meet the soft, comforting warmth of Scandinavian baking. The spiced Za'atar is paired with soft, pillowy rolls, infused with a hint of garlic and creamy feta cheese for an irresistible savory twist. The combination of delicate swirls and bold flavors will transport you to a world of comfort and spice, making these a perfect treat for any occasion.

Once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

This recipe makes approximately 16 pieces and wasc reated by @rukiyebenli.

Dough:
50 g yeast
5 dl water
2 tbsp sugar
3 tsp salt
2 eggs
800 g flour
75 g butter, at room temperature

Filling:
4 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp Za’atar
2 garlic cloves
75 g feta cheese
50 g butter, melted

Crumble the yeast into the water and add the sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes while the yeast dissolves.

Add the salt, eggs, and flour (a little at a time), and knead the dough on medium speed in a stand mixer. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes, then add the butter in small pieces. Continue kneading for another 5 minutes, or until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle.

Mix the olive oil, Za'atar, and finely grated or pressed garlic together. Spread the spice mixture over the dough and crumble the feta cheese on top.

Fold one half of the dough over the other, then cut the dough into 2 cm strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Twist these strips over three of your fingers, and finish by tucking the end underneath the swirl.

Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let the swirls rise for about 45 minutes.

Bake the swirls in a preheated 230°C oven for about 12 minutes, until golden brown. Brush them with melted butter once they come out of the oven.

Enjoy them warm!