1. Where does it come from?
Zaatar (also known as za’atar) has roots in Ancient Egypt with a rich history of both culinary and medicinal uses. It’s a staple across the Middle East, in Palestine, Syria, Lebanon and more, with each country having its own version of the blend and diverse uses in dishes.
2. What does it taste like?
Zaatar’s ingredient list usually includes dried oregano, thyme, sumac, salt and toasted sesame seeds, with additional ingredients varying by region. Therefore, this combination yields a range of flavours best described as tangy, floral and nutty.
3. How do I use it?
Zaatar is so versatile, it can be used in many ways to add a burst of flavour to a recipe. This includes sprinkling it over hummus, scrambled eggs and roasted vegetables, or adding it to salad dressings or meat marinades. You can also use it to season mashed potatoes, flatbread or amp up a bowl of popcorn! It’s even great with some olive oil to dip bread in.
4. Is it good for me?
Studies have shown that its combination of polyphenols, dietary fibre and essential oils (such as thymol and carvacrol) can help make gut bacteria healthier and more diverse. Thymol and carvacrol also boast anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping the body to fight off free radicals and lower the risk of chronic disease.
Given that this spice blend is so flavourful, a little goes a long way when it comes to adding a burst of flavour to a recipe without the need for added salt, sugar or preservatives. Store-bought versions, however, may contain excess sodium, but making a homemade version is quick and easy to do!
Combine:
- 2 tbsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp ground sumac
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp fleur de sel
Want to cook with zaatar? Here are a few recipes you’ll want to try: