Za’atar
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Total Time
5 mins
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Servings
10 (~2 tsp servings)
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Calories
20 kcal
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Course
Condiments
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Cuisine
Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Vegan
Za’atar
Description
The Za’atar recipe combines 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds with dried thyme, oregano, ground cumin, sea salt, and sumac. Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor. These ingredients are combined by grinding or mixing until uniform. Olive oil can be added optionally near the end to create a moist, paste-like texture that clings well during application.
Flavor-wise, this blend melds the earthiness from the herbs, the citrusy tang from sumac, and the warmth from cumin, anchored by the crisp toasted sesame seeds. The salt level can be adjusted to personal preference to make it a direct seasoning or a less salty garnish.
Za’atar is versatile for marinating or seasoning meats as well as sprinkling over salads, hummus, bread, or vegetables. Its integration of herbs and spices adds complexity and depth to a variety of dishes.
Customizing the ratio of herbs and spices allows the cook to emphasize floral, woody, smoky, or tangy aspects. The optional olive oil addition can help it function as both a dry blend and a moist marinade component.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp sesame seeds toasted
- 1 Tbsp thyme dried
- 1 Tbsp oregano dried
- 1 Tbsp cumin ground
- 1/4-1/2 tsp salt sea salt
- 1 ½-2 Tbsp sumac
- 1-2 Tbsp olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- If using untoasted sesame seeds, heat a small skillet over low to medium heat. Add sesame seeds and toast for a few minutes or until lightly golden brown, stirring frequently.
- Transfer toasted sesame seeds to a mortar, small blender, or small mixing bowl, along with thyme, oregano, cumin, sea salt (starting with lesser amount), and sumac. Use either the pestle, blender, or a spoon to combine the mixture. Add olive oil (optional) near the end and mix again to combine.
- Taste test and adjust as needed, adding more cumin for smokiness, salt to taste, sumac for tartness, thyme for floral notes, oregano for a woodsy taste, or sesame seeds for sesame flavor and more texture. NOTE: The amount of salt you add will depend on preference. If you typically add more salt to dishes, hold back a bit. If you want this to be a stand-alone spice blend that seasons a salad or hummus, etc., a greater amount of salt is nice for balance and flavor.
- Perfect for marinating or seasoning meats, garnishing dips and salads, or adding more flavor to just about any dish, especially those that are Middle Eastern or Mediterranean inspired, including hummus, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
- Will keep in a sealed container for at least 3 months (or longer) at room temperature. Or, refrigerate to keep fresh even longer.
Notes
- Toast sesame seeds lightly to enhance their nutty flavor before mixing.
- Adjust salt according to taste and intended use, less for general seasoning, more for standalone blends.
- Add olive oil optionally to create a wet blend suitable for marinating or spreading.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 10(~2 tsp servings)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 20 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1two-teaspoon servings | |
| Calories | 20 | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 1.7g | 1% |
| Protein | 0.6g | 1% |
| Fat | 1.5g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2g | 1% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.57g | 3% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0.63g | 3% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 113mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 24mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 1.1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 0.06g | 0% |
| Vitamin A | 24.22IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 0.19mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 16.82mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.96mg | 5% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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