Middle Eastern Za’atar

Zaatar/Za’atar is the name of a species of Thyme (Origanum Syriacum) found in the Middle East and it’s also the name of a spice and herb blend.

Za’atar Chicken with Tahini Dressing

Ways to use Middle Eastern Za’atar

• Za’atar is most frequently used as a table condiment, sprinkled on food or stirred into some olive oil as a dip for flatbread.
• Combine with breadcrumbs to coat chicken or pork cutlets.
• Use in a dressing for a carrot salad with raisins.
• Toss carrots, cauliflower, chickpeas and tomatoes in olive oil and Za’atar and bake.
• Use as dry rub for roast chicken or lamb, as well as on firm or starchy vegetables like cauliflower or potatoes.
• Make a vinaigrette with olive oil, balsamic and Za’atar, allow to infuse for at least 30 minutes. Use on salads or vegetables.
• For a quick marinade, mix a quarter cup of extra virgin olive oil with 2-3 teaspoons of Za’atar, the zest of a lemon and a good pinch of salt.
• Use with chicken, beef, lamb, fish and seafood or vegetables – slices of eggplant marinated and then grilled until lightly charred and tender are also delicious.

Sprinkle over:

• sliced tomatoes and cucumbers garnished with fresh basil.
• plain yogurt, and drizzle with olive oil to make a delicious dip.
• Mediterranean-style pizzas.
• boiled, poached and fried eggs or an omelette.
• vegetables, salads, meatballs or kebabs.
• hummus/hommus
• cubes of feta or goats cheese, add a slurp of olive oil and store in a jar in the fridge.

In fact, Za’atar goes with almost anything savoury!

Ingredients: sumac, roasted sesame seeds, oregano, thyme, marjoram, salt.