How to Make Arabic Style Pizza at Home Using Traditional Ingredients

Middle Eastern flatbreads like manakeesh and lahmacun are regional favourites, usually topped with ingredients like za’atar, spiced meats, fresh herbs, or labneh. Traditionally, these flatbreads are baked in stone ovens, which gives them a perfectly crisp crust and soft interior. In this recipe, we’ll aim to capture the essence of these traditional breads using simple techniques and easily available ingredients. This homemade Middle Eastern pizza blends rich spices and wholesome, organic toppings to create an authentic dish that’s both nutritious and flavourful.

Ingredients for Arabic Style Pizza Recipe

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (organic preferred for the best flavour)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp sugar

• 2 tsp active dry yeast

• ¾ cup warm water

• 2 tbsp extra virgin organic olive oil

For the Topping:

• 1 cup organic minced lamb or beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp coriander, ½ tsp cinnamon

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses

• Fresh herbs like parsley or mint

Optional Toppings:

• Organic feta cheese, crumbled

• Sliced tomatoes

• Black or green olives

• A sprinkle of sumac 

For high-quality organic ingredients, check out Originz, a great source for healthy food products. Using organic items will enhance the flavours and add a healthful touch to your homemade Middle Eastern pizza.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Arabic Style Pizza

1.Prepare the Dough

To start, activate the yeast by mixing warm water with the sugar and yeast in a small bowl. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. In a larger bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the centre and pour in the yeast mixture along with olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Transfer the dough to a bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2.Prepare the Topping

While the dough rises, prepare the toppings. In a pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and golden. Add the minced meat, cooking until browned. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and pomegranate molasses. Season with salt and pepper, and cook the mixture for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the spices to meld with the meat. Once done, set aside to cool slightly.

3.Roll Out and Assemble the Pizza

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F), placing a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up. Punch down the dough and divide it into 2 or 4 portions, depending on how large you’d like the pizzas. Roll each portion into a thin round or oval on a floured surface. Spread a generous layer of the spiced meat mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Add any optional toppings, such as crumbled feta, sliced tomatoes, or olives, for a personalised Middle Eastern flatbread pizza.

4.Bake and Serve

Transfer each assembled pizza onto the preheated stone or baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the crust is golden and the toppings are sizzling. Once baked, remove from the oven and top with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sumac if desired. A drizzle of olive oil can also add extra richness to each slice.

This homemade Middle Eastern pizza is best enjoyed warm and fresh, straight from the oven. The combination of spiced meat, fresh herbs, and optional organic toppings makes each bite a flavour-packed experience that’s perfect for sharing.

Why Choose Organic Ingredients?

Choosing organic ingredients not only improves the flavour but also adds a wholesome element to your Arabic style pizza recipe. Organic produce is grown without synthetic pesticides or additives, giving you a cleaner taste that enhances the authenticity of Middle Eastern dishes. Supporting organic products also contributes to environmental sustainability, something that Originz  promotes through our range of healthy food products. To find more ways to use organic ingredients in everyday meals, explore some delicious recipes on our site.

FAQs

Can I make Middle Eastern pizza without meat?

Yes! For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with roasted vegetables such as aubergine, courgette, and peppers. Add feta cheese and olives for extra flavour.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely. Once kneaded, you can store the dough in the fridge for up to a day. Before rolling, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

What can I use instead of pomegranate molasses?

If you don’t have pomegranate molasses, a combination of balsamic vinegar and a touch of honey can provide a similar sweet-tangy depth.

With this Arabic style pizza recipe, you can enjoy a homemade Middle Eastern pizza that’s as healthy as it is delicious. So, bring out your organic ingredients and enjoy the rich, authentic flavours of the Middle East in your own kitchen!

Further Read,

•        Cheese Filling Variations for Arabic Kunafa

•        Health Benefits of Eating Saudi Tamees

•        Arabic Spiced Brisket from the UAE