Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend made from a herb mixture usually containing thyme, sumac, cumin, salt, and other spices. It’s used extensively throughout the Levant countries as a topping for Arabic pita bread, meat, yogurt, hummus, and salads.
Za’atar spice is an incredibly versatile spice mixture with a nutty, herbal flavor. It’s often tangy (from the sumac) and sometimes tastes lemony, depending on the ingredients used.
How to Use Za'atar
Za’atar is used in many Middle Eastern dishes, but it makes for a great topping on lots of different types of food - meat, vegetables, yogurt, and bread. It packs a zesty punch and is highly adaptable.
Storage
Here's how you can make your own za'atar spice blend at home. It's easy to make and keeps for several months if you store it in an airtight container.
More Middle Eastern Spice Blends
Check out our other Arabic spice blends and spices.
- Ras el Hanout Spice Guide
- Hawaij Spice Guide
- Baharat Spice Guide
- Dukkah Spice Guide
- Urfa Biber Spice Guide
Za'atar Recipe
Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend made that's incredibly versatile and used in many dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons cumin seeds
- 2 tablespoons coriander
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons sumac
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
1. Heat a small frying pan over medium heat. Toast the thyme, cumin, coriander, and sesame seeds for 2 minutes - stirring every 30 seconds.
2. Combine the toasted seeds, sumac, and salt in mortar and pestle or spice mill and grind them till combined. A rough consistency is okay.
3. Save for up to 3 weeks in an airtight container.
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