Za’atar Spice Recipe

With vibrant colors and bold flavors, this homemade Za’atar recipe may be what you need for your next meal!

Table of Contents

Za’atar has been a staple in Arab cuisine since medieval times all the way to the present, and is one of the most ancient spice blends in the world. It’s traditionally made from herbs like dried oregano, thyme, marjoram, and sumac. This version calls for dried thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, dried oregano and sea salt, however there are so many different ways to prepare it.

Many Middle Eastern households use za’atar as a seasoning for breads, meats, and veggies. If you are a big pita fan like me, I suggest you coat your bread in olive oil and then sprinkle it with Za’atar for a delicious twist.

Is Za’atar Spice Healthy?

Historically, za’atar was used as a medicinal herb to treat various conditions. It’s rich in antioxidants and contains many anti-inflammatory properties. Now, that’s a win-win if you ask me. Not only is it nutritious, but it also makes my food taste even more delicious. I am here for it!

What to do if you don’t have…?

There are other spices that can get the job done as well if you don’t have an ingredient or two on this list. For example, you can mix in marjoram, cumin, or coriander to replace whatever spice you might not have on hand. These all pair well with sumac and toasted sesame seeds. I also tend to add extra ground thyme or oregano if I don’t have one. And if you don’t have any sesame seeds in store, no worries! Use flax, hemp, or chia seeds. Flax seeds are popular as sesame seed substitutes due to their similar, slightly nutty flavor profile.

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons dried thyme
2 tablespoons sumac
2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon fine sea salt

INSTRUCTIONS

Mix

Combine all spices in a bowl.

Stir

Blend the ingredients thoroughly.

Store

Keep in an airtight container.

Devour!

FAQs & Tips

How to Make Ahead and Store?

This is a great recipe to make ahead and store for future use. Once you are done toasting your ingredients until fragrant, set them aside and let them cool in a bowl before mixing them with a small whisk. Store the mixture in an airtight container in a cool and dark place. The spice blend will stay fresh for about a year if stored properly. I recommend a mini mason jar or something that offers a sealed top.

Toast & Roast Your spices

The blend can vary significantly based on personal preferences, however if you are going to make a homemade version I suggest you use high-quality spices and freshly toast your ingredients for more flavor. The roasting and toasting results in a more potent mix. It’s what makes it stand out compared to the store-bought mixes.

Mediterranean Oregano? It’s the way to go

Opt for Greek oregano for a more robust, earthy flavor. Different varieties of oregano may be more bitter, sweet, or peppery than others. Greek oregano tends to be the most savory, while Italian is milder and Turkish is more pungent.

Serving Suggestions

There are so many different ways to use your Za’atar spice. Dust over and bake onto flatbreads or use as a seasoning to sprinkle over meats and vegetables. Create man’oushe by mixing it together with some olive oil and spreading it over pita bread before cooking. Or serve dry alongside a dipping bowl full of olive oil. For a wonderful recipe, drizzle it over Greek yogurt, Hummus, or Creamy Baba Ghanoush and serve with raw veggies and crumbled feta cheese. You can also use your Za’atar as a marinade or dry rub for grilled mushrooms and kebabs. It even goes well in salad dressings!