9 minutes
A homemade Middle Eastern spice blend with a combination of sesame seeds, fresh thyme, sumac, and a hint of salt.
Sesame Seeds, Raw, white or black
cups
Fresh Thyme Leaves, Coarsely chopped
cups
Ground Sumac
tablespoons
to taste
1. Toast Sesame Seeds
Place a small skillet over medium heat and add the sesame seeds. Stir them gently and consistently for about 4 minutes until they turn golden brown and emit a nutty aroma.
2. Add Thyme and Sumac
Remove the skillet from the heat, and immediately add the coarsely chopped fresh thyme leaves and the ground sumac to the skillet. Toss everything together gently.
3. Season with Salt
Season the mixture with a pinch of kosher salt to taste. Allow the za’atar to cool before transferring it to a storage container.
Fresh za’atar is traditionally made with the herb itself (za’atar or wild thyme), but if it’s challenging to find, you can use a blend of fresh thyme, oregano, and marjoram. Ensure these herbs are as fresh as possible; the leaves should be vibrant and aromatic without any signs of wilting or yellowing.
Fresh za’atar can be sprinkled over warm flatbreads with olive oil, used as a seasoning for roasted vegetables, or rubbed onto meats or tofu. It's also a perfect finishing touch for salads or dips like hummus.
Use freshly ground sumac for brightness and a slightly tangy kick. The sumac balances the other flavors in the blend, so adjust according to your taste. Toast sesame seeds gently before adding them to the mixture to enhance their nuttiness and add a deeper flavor profile.
Salt is a crucial component, but it should be used judiciously. Start with a bit less than you think you need, then taste and adjust. Consider using flaked or coarse sea salt for texture and flavor.
Pair your freshly made za’atar with high-quality olive oil and crusty bread. The oil will highlight the za’atar’s flavors, making this simple combination extraordinary.
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