Want to wake up the flavor of your foods, or perhaps add a little bit of intrigue to your recipes? Then say hello to my Za'atar Substitute Spice Blend. A sprinkle of Za'atar really wakens the flavor of food. Sprinkle some Za'atar on Low Carb Seed Crackers or liven up your Bucatini Cacio e Pepe. The possibilities are endless!
Why This Recipe Works
Zaatar is used widely in the Middle East to enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes. It is most commonly mixed with olive oil and spread on flatbread, but that’s just one of many ways you can incorporate zaatar into your dishes.
Although you can find it in most Middle Eastern markets, and on Amazon, it's much better when you make it fresh. In my opinion, home-made is always better than store-bought.
How to Make This Recipe
Toast sesame seeds in a pan until fragrant and their color starts to change, being careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Once the sesame seeds have cooled off, mix with the other ingredients.
Add to a spice jar and store for up to three months. Using a funnel makes this task a little easier!
Recipe FAQ's and Expert Tips
Zaatar is a delicious seasoning blend that includes a mixture of spices. Some of the spices are pretty common, while others might be a little harder to come by, like Sumac.
Here are some common spices and herbs that are used to make Zaatar.
Sesame Seeds
Sumac
Thyme
Marjoram
Oregano
Cumin
Corriander
Hyssop
Chili Flakes
There are some common ways to use za'atar, and then there are some creative ways to use it.
Want to enhance the flavor of Hummus? Just sprinkle some of this delicious Za'atar substitute on the Hummus just prior to serving it.
Or, consider using Za'atar as a seasoning for Kabobs, fish, and Poultry.
Here's one more idea: Make a paste with some za'atar mix and olive oil, and spread on naan or flatbread. Top with feta cheese, and black kalamata olives.
Toast until the bread is crispy, and the cheese is melted. sprinkle with additional za'atar and enjoy!
- Making Zaatar in smaller quantities is better than making large batches. If you do make a larger batch, store the extra spice blend in ziplock bags in the freezer until needed.
- Use Za'atar to season Roasted Pumpkin Seeds and seed crackers.
Related Recipes
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MIDDLE EASTERN ZA’ATAR SPICE BLEND
Ingredients
- ¼ cup sesame seeds
- ¼ cup sumac
- 3 T ground thyme
- 1 T dried marjoram
- 1 T dried oregano
- ½ tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Toast sesame seeds in a pan until fragrant and their color starts to change, being careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Once the sesame seeds have cooled off, mix with the other ingredients.
- Add to a spice jar and store for up to three months. Using a funnel makes this task a little easier!
Notes
- Making Zaatar in smaller quantities is better than making large batches. If you do make a larger batch, store the extra spice blend in ziplock bags in the freezer until needed.
- Use Za'atar to season Roasted Pumpkin Seeds and seed crackers.
Maureen says
Hi Hilda,
What is the measurement T stands for: Tablespoon of Teaspoon
HildaSterner says
Hi Maureen, T. stands for tablespoon and tsp. for teaspoon. Have a great day!