Lebanese Za'atar Recipe
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Total Time
5 mins
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Servings
16
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Calories
23 kcal
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Course
Condiments
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Cuisine
Lebanese
Lebanese Za'atar Recipe
Description
This version of Lebanese Za'atar includes toasted sesame seeds that provide a nutty base, combined with tart sumac and ground cumin for earthiness and warmth. Crushed wild thyme and oregano contribute herbal depth and aroma, while dried cilantro can be added optionally for a subtle bright note. The spices and herbs are crushed and combined manually using a mortar and pestle or similar tool, which preserves their textures and releases fragrances without over-powdering. The resulting blend has balanced, distinctive flavors characteristic of traditional Lebanese Za'atar used to sprinkle on foods or mix with olive oil. The recipe yields about one cup of the spice blend, which should be stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Ingredients
- 6 tbsp sesame seeds toasted
- 4 tbsp sumac ground
- 1 tbsp salt
- 3 tbsp dried thyme crushed, wild thyme preferred
- 3 tbsp oregano crushed, dried
- 1 tbsp cumin ground
- 3 tbsp cilantro optional, dried
Instructions
- If you can't find toasted sesame seeds: In a small skillet, dry toast the sesame seeds until fragrant and lightly golden in color. Remove from heat and cool.
- Crush the sumac and salt with the mortar and pestle (or in a small bowl and the end of a wooden spoon). Add the thyme, oregano and optional dried cilantro and grind together. Stir in the sesame seeds and mix thoroughly. Taste, and adjust to taste with a bit more salt, or sumac.
- Store in an airtight container. This makes about 1 cup.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 16Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 23 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 23kcal | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 2g | 3% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 438mg | 18% |
| Potassium | 33mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 62IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 61mg | 6% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.