But Seriously, You Need A Go-To Za'atar Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What is zaatar made of? ›

Za'atar is a spice blend composed of herbs such as thyme, oregano, marjoram or a combination of the three, along with other spices including sesame, sumac, cumin or coriander.

If you can't find real za'atar, oregano mixed with some marjoram and/or thyme gives you the closest approximation to the flavor of the native plant.

The BEST Za'atar Substitutes

Use two tablespoons of sesame seeds, one tablespoon of thyme and two teaspoons of sumac or the zest from one lemon. To step it up a notch, add a teaspoon of dried cumin or coriander for some depth and earthiness.

Zaatar or Za'tar (zaah-tur) is a common noun in the Arabic language and refers to both a Middle-Eastern herb spice mixture and importantly a distinct herb plant in the mint family. The herbal plant is referred to in English as bible hyssop or Syrian oregano, but the mixture is just called zaatar.

Nutritional Value of Zaatar:

Sesame seeds are thought to be one of the healthiest foods because they are full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and nutrients that are good for your health. Sesame seeds are a great way to get minerals like copper, magnesium, iron, calcium, and zinc.

Za'atar. Also among Middle Eastern blends is za'atar, a mixture with a very different base than baharat. It consists of a mix of herbs (basil, thyme, oregano, or hyssop), toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. As in many Middle Eastern blends, other spices like cumin and coriander can be added.

Ingredients. Toasted sesame seeds, spices (thyme, marjoram, coriander, oregano) chickpea flour, sea salt, sunflower oil, citric acid (acidulant), lemon oil.

Also among popular Middle Eastern blends is Za'atar, a mixture with a very different base and flavor profile than baharat. It is a much more herbaceous, nutty blend, consists of a mix of dried herbs (basil, thyme, oregano, or hyssop), toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and salt.

How to use Zaatar Spice? Keep this seasoning blend handy and you will think of it as a finishing flavor for all kinds of dishes, like fried eggs, salad dressings, roasted and fresh vegetables and chicken, dips such as hummus and baba ganoush, bread, potatoes, atop avocado toast and kale chips.

What is the difference between zaatar and dukkah spice? ›

Dukkah and za'atar both come from the Middle Eastern region and have slight similarities. While some of the ingredients of the two spice mixes are the same, za'atar is made with more ground herbs, such as thyme and oregano, while dukkah is primarily seeds and nuts.

Even though it varies greatly depending on where you are in the Middle East (specific recipes are sometimes closely-guarded secrets!), za'atar is generally a combination of dried oregano, thyme, and/or marjoram (woodsy and floral), with sumac (tangy and acidic) and toasted sesame seeds (nutty and rich).

What does sumac taste like? It tastes somewhat like fresh lemon juice – a bit sour and astringent! But it's much more complex and nuanced in flavor. Sumac is tangy and deep with a hint of earthy sweetness and floral citrus notes.

Za'atar is both the name for wild thyme, a herb that grows primarily in the hills of the eastern mediterranean and most importantly, the name of a spice mix that has many variations in the middle east. “There are 22 herb species referred to as za'atar in the region. It is the essential oils they have in common.

The beauty of za'atar is its simplicity and adaptability. Since it is roasted, its taste is naturally earthy. But it also brings a lemony brightness to the foods it is paired with. Its flavor is subtle yet aromatic, rich but not overpowering, deep yet slightly tangy.

In 1977, the Israeli Ministry of Agriculture declared wild za'atar a protected plant in Israel, strictly regulating its harvesting. The criminalization of za'atar harvesting continues to be enforced in Israel and occupied territories of the West Bank by the Israeli Nature and Parks Association (INPA).

2. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Many of the herbs in za'atar, like thyme and oregano, contain compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in reducing inflammation in the body.