CuisineSavvy

Za'atar (Thyme, Sumac and Sesame Blend)

Vegan spice mix · Serves 1 · Ready in 15 min

Fragrant, tangy and flecked with toasted sesame, za'atar is the Levantine spice blend that transforms a drizzle of olive oil into something extraordinary. Deep herbal warmth from thyme and oregano meets the bright citrus bite of sumac in a blend that is as beautiful in the jar as it is on the table. Keep a jar to hand and it will find its way onto everything.

Allergens:sesame

Details

Nutritional Values

This blend is entirely plant-based with no animal ingredients to swap. The toasted sesame seeds are the nutritional standout: they supply calcium, iron, zinc and healthy unsaturated fats. Sumac contributes antioxidant tannins and a natural acidity that keeps salt low — only a small pinch is needed. The dried herbs provide polyphenols associated with anti-inflammatory benefits. Used as a condiment rather than a seasoning, za'atar adds flavour with very little sodium per serving.

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Ingredients

Instructions

Za'atar (Thyme, Sumac and Sesame Blend)

Fragrant, tangy and flecked with toasted sesame, za'atar is the Levantine spice blend that transforms a drizzle of olive oil into something extraordinary. Deep herbal warmth from thyme and oregano meets the bright citrus bite of sumac in a blend that is as beautiful in the jar as it is on the table. Keep a jar to hand and it will find its way onto everything.

Ingredients
[ ] 3 tbsp dried thyme
[ ] 1 tbsp dried oregano
[ ] 2 tbsp ground sumac
[ ] 2 tbsp sesame seeds
[ ] ¼ tsp fine sea salt (or a small pinch, to taste)

Instructions
[ ] 1. Place the sesame seeds in a small dry frying pan over a medium-low heat. Toast, stirring frequently, for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
[ ] 2. Tip the toasted sesame seeds onto a plate and leave to cool completely.
[ ] 3. Place the dried thyme and dried oregano in the palm of one hand. Rub both palms together firmly to crush the herbs and release their oils.
[ ] 4. Transfer the rubbed herbs to a small bowl. Add the ground sumac, cooled sesame seeds and sea salt.
[ ] 5. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
[ ] 6. Spoon into a clean, airtight jar.
[ ] 7. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months; the flavour is best within the first 3 months.
[ ] 8. To use, stir 2–3 tablespoons of za'atar into enough olive oil to make a loose paste.
[ ] 9. Spread the paste onto flatbread (manakish), spoon over hummus, toss with roasted vegetables or chickpeas, or scatter over salads.

https://www.cuisinesavvy.com/recipe/za-atar-thyme-sumac-and-sesame-blend

HealthScore: 83

Built entirely from dried herbs, sumac, and whole sesame seeds, za'atar is one of the cleanest condiments you can make — no fillers, no preservatives. Just remember the recipe's own suggestion to stir it into olive oil adds significant fat; the blend itself is virtuous, but how you use it determines the dish.