Want to wake up the flavor of your foods, or perhaps add a little bit of intrigue to your Middle Eastern Cuisine? Then say hello to my Za'atar Substitute Spice Blend! A sprinkle of Za'atar really wakens the flavor of food. Sprinkle on Low Carb Seed Crackers, make Zaatar chicken, or mix it in your Chickpea Salad.
Why This Recipe Works
Similar to Dukkah, Zaatar is used widely in the Middle East and the Mediterranean region to enhance the flavor of a variety of Middle Eastern dishes. Za'atar Spice Mix is commonly mixed with olive oil and spread on flatbread or pita bread, or sprinkled on Labneh and Harissa.
Although you can find it in most Middle Eastern markets and on Amazon, it's much better when you make your own Za'atar Substitute Seasoning Blend at home. In my opinion, homemade is always better than store-bought, don't you agree?
How to Make Za'atar Seasoning Blend
Step 1: To start, toast sesame seeds in a pan until fragrant and their color starts to change. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove the pan from heat and allow the sesame seeds to cool.
Step 2: Meanwhile, measure out the other recipe ingredients (sumac, thyme, marjoram, oregano, and sea salt). Once the sesame seeds have cooled off, mix all the ingredients together.
Step 3: Pour the spice mixture into 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 is a list of common spices and herbs that are used to make Za'atar Seasoning Blends. If using whole spices, it's highly recommended to toast them before you grind them.
Sesame Seeds
Ground Sumac
Dried Thyme leaves
Marjoram
Dried Oregano
Cumin Powder (preferably freshly ground cumin seeds)
Corriander Powder (preferably freshly ground coriander seeds)
Hyssop
Dried mint
Chili Flakes
Lemon Zest
Kosher Salt
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 your Hummus dip? Just sprinkle some of this delicious Za'atar substitute on the Hummus just prior to serving it.
Consider using Za'atar as a seasoning for Kabobs, fish, and Chicken. You can even sprinkle it on sliced cucumbers and tomatoes, or your favorite vegetables or salad. However, I think it would be better when mixed in with the salad dressing.
You can also make a paste with the za'atar substitute and olive oil, and spread it on naan or flatbread. Then you can top it 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.
- Need more ways to use Za'atar? Check out my Roasted Pumpkin Seeds recipe.
If you enjoy making your own spice blends, you may be interested in learning how to make your own Corned Beef Spice Blend, Biryani Spice, Pork Rub, and DIY Shawarma Seasoning Blend.
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📖 Recipe
Za'atar Substitute Spice Blend
Ingredients
- ¼ cup sesame seeds
- ¼ cup sumac
- 3 tablespoon ground thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- To start, toast sesame seeds in a pan until fragrant and their color starts to change. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove the pan from heat and allow the sesame seeds to cool.
- Meanwhile, measure out the other recipe ingredients (sumac, thyme, marjoram, oregano, and sea salt). Once the sesame seeds have cooled off, mix all the ingredients together.
- Pour the spice mixture into 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.
- Need more ways to use Za'atar? Check out my Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Jubie says
Made it, loved it! Left out the salt since we're lowering our salt intake here. Tonight I fried some chicken thighs, gave them a generous sprinkle of this spice blend halfway through, and served them sliced on a salad with lettuce, tomatoes, pickled red onion, and garlic yoghurt sauce. Super yummy.
Hilda Sterner says
Hi Jubie, that sounds very yummy, thanks for the review!
Jeanne says
Where would I find sumac?
Hilda Sterner says
Hi Jeanne,
You can find Sumac at any Middle Eastern market, some health food markets, and on Amazon. I included a link in the FAQ section.
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!