What Is Za’atar?
Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend made by combining dried thyme (or similar regional herbs), toasted sesame seeds, tangy sumac, and salt. The word is also the name of the herb at the center of the blend (Origanum syriacum).
It is common in Lebanese, Syrian, Palestinian, and Jordanian cuisines; each region and even each family has its own proportions, so there is no single “standard” za’atar recipe.
Nutritional Values of Za’atar
Per 100 g, za’atar contains approximately 380 kcal of energy; it contains fat from sesame and is high in fiber from the herbs and sesame. Values vary with the proportions in the blend and are approximate.
How Should Za’atar Be Consumed?
As part of a balanced diet, za’atar is used in moderate amounts to season food and bread.
This is general information; za’atar is a spice and is not a substitute for medical treatment. People with sesame allergies should avoid products containing za’atar.
How to Choose Za’atar
Good za’atar has a distinct herbal, tangy aroma, a greenish-red color, and visible sesame seeds. Pale products or those with a weak aroma may be stale.
- It should have a distinct herbal, tangy aroma and no musty smell
- The color should be vivid greenish-red
- The sesame seeds should be visible and freshly toasted
How to Store Za’atar
Za’atar can be stored in a sealed container in a dry, dark cupboard for a few months; because it contains sesame, it can start to turn rancid if left exposed to air for a long time.
Using Za’atar in the Kitchen
Za’atar is most often mixed with olive oil and spread on bread (man’oushe), sprinkled over grilled meat and vegetables, or used as a finishing touch on yogurt and hummus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is za’atar the same as thyme?
No; thyme is one ingredient in za’atar, but za’atar is a blend of several ingredients enriched with sesame and sumac.
Can za’atar be made at home?
Yes; an approximate version of za’atar can be made by mixing dried thyme, toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and salt in suitable proportions.
Is za’atar available in Türkiye?
It may be available in Southeastern Anatolia and at gourmet markets and shops that sell Middle Eastern products.