Middle-Eastern Zaatar Bread (Manakish Za'atar)

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1. 1Step 1: Prepare the Middle Eastern dough; it takes about 1.5 hours including a 1-hour proof, so plan ahead.
2. 2Step 2: Divide the dough into 5 equal pieces for larger breads or 8 for medium ones; you can weigh for accuracy or eyeball it.
3. 3Step 3: Roll each piece into a round, pizza-shaped disc about 1/4-inch thick.
4. 4Step 4: Lightly dimple the top of each disc with your fingers; this helps the topping stay and prevents puffing. You can do this before or after adding the topping.
5. 5Step 5: Place an inverted baking tray or pizza stone in the oven and preheat to the highest temperature (e.g., 500°F/260°C).
6. 6Step 6: In a small bowl, mix the za'atar and olive oil into a paste similar to pesto, not a thick paste.
7. 7Step 7: Spread the za'atar oil mixture over each flatbread, leaving a 1/2-1 inch crust at the edges; adjust the amount to taste.
8. 8Step 8: Carefully transfer the topped breads onto the preheated tray or stone.
9. 9Step 9: Bake for 5-7 minutes until lightly golden-brown, being careful not to burn the spices.
10. 10Step 10: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly so the topping sets; cover with a kitchen towel to keep the bread soft.
11. 11Step 11: Store baked bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or at room temperature for 3-5 days if the dough used oil. For freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge or reheat from frozen at 250°F/120°C for 20-25 minutes.