Za’atar: A Taste of the Levant

The first time I encountered za’atar, I was backpacking through Jordan. The scent, earthy and bright, pulled me into a tiny bakery where a woman with flour-dusted hands was pressing dough onto a scorching-hot saj oven. She sprinkled the flatbread generously with a green-brown mixture, the aroma intensifying as it baked. The warm, fragrant bread, drizzled with olive oil, was a revelation – a simple yet complex flavor that immediately transported me to the sun-drenched hillsides of the Levant. That moment ignited a lifelong love affair with this captivating spice blend.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yields: 1/2 cup
• Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons ground sumac
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment Needed

• Small bowl
• Airtight container

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the dried thyme, ground sumac, sesame seeds, dried oregano, and garlic powder.
2. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Store the za’atar in an airtight container at room temperature.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Toast the sesame seeds: For a deeper, nuttier flavor, lightly toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until golden and fragrant, before adding them to the za’atar mix. Be careful not to burn them!
• Adjust the ratios: Feel free to adjust the ratios of the spices to suit your personal preferences. If you prefer a more lemony flavor, add more sumac. If you like a stronger thyme flavor, increase the amount of thyme.
• Fresh herbs: While this recipe calls for dried herbs for ease of storage, you can substitute fresh herbs if you prefer. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. Make sure the herbs are completely dry before combining them, or your za’atar might clump.
• Spice quality matters: The fresher and higher quality your spices are, the more flavorful your za’atar will be. Seek out spices from reputable sources for the best results.
• Make a large batch: Za’atar keeps well for several months, so consider making a larger batch to have on hand whenever you need it.
• Grind your own spices: For a more intense flavor, grind your own thyme and oregano using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder. This releases the essential oils and enhances the overall aroma.
• Beyond the Basics: Experiment with adding other spices to your za’atar blend, such as marjoram, savory, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Reviving Older Za’atar: If your za’atar has been sitting for a while and seems less fragrant, you can revive it by gently toasting it in a dry pan over low heat for a minute or two.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Za’atar is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. It is traditionally served with olive oil and bread for dipping. Simply pour some high-quality olive oil into a shallow dish and sprinkle with za’atar. Dip pieces of fresh bread into the oil and enjoy.

Beyond dipping, za’atar can be sprinkled on salads, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even eggs. It adds a delicious savory and tangy flavor to almost anything. Try using it as a rub for chicken or lamb before roasting, or sprinkle it on top of hummus or labneh for an extra layer of flavor.

Store za’atar in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, it will last for several months, although the flavor may gradually diminish over time. There’s no need to refrigerate or freeze za’atar.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	30 kcal	2%
Total Fat	2g	3%
Saturated Fat	0.3g	2%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	2g	1%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	0g	0%
Protein	1g	2%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Homemade Sumac Substitute: While sumac is a key ingredient in za’atar, if you can’t find it, you can create a reasonable substitute by combining lemon zest with a pinch of citric acid and salt. However, keep in mind that the flavor won’t be exactly the same.
• Sesame-Free Za’atar: For those with sesame allergies, you can omit the sesame seeds altogether. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious. You could try substituting with sunflower seeds for a similar textural element.
• Spicy Za’atar: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the za’atar mix for a touch of heat.
• Herby Twist: Experiment with different herbs in addition to or in place of the thyme and oregano. Marjoram, savory, or even dried mint can add unique flavor profiles.
• Regional Variations: Different regions in the Levant have their own variations of za’atar. Some include ingredients like roasted wheat flour or ground cumin. Research different regional variations to discover new flavor combinations.
• Za’atar Oil: Infuse olive oil with za’atar for a flavorful dipping oil or salad dressing. Simply combine za’atar with olive oil and let it sit for a few days to allow the flavors to meld.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What exactly is sumac?
A: Sumac is a tangy, lemony spice made from the dried and ground berries of the sumac shrub. It’s a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and adds a bright, acidic flavor to dishes.

Q: How long does za’atar last?
A: Za’atar can last for up to 6 months if stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. The flavor may gradually diminish over time.

Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
A: Yes, you can use fresh herbs, but you’ll need to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. Make sure the herbs are completely dry before combining them.

Q: What can I use za’atar on?
A: Za’atar is incredibly versatile and can be used on a variety of dishes, including bread, salads, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and eggs.

Q: Can I make za’atar without sesame seeds?
A: Yes, you can omit the sesame seeds if you have a sesame allergy or simply don’t like them. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

Za’atar is more than just a spice blend; it’s a taste of history, culture, and sun-drenched landscapes. It’s a reminder of warm hospitality and the simple pleasures of life. This recipe is a starting point – feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique za’atar blend. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your creations with friends and family. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread and a bottle of robust red wine for a truly authentic experience. Enjoy!