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Homemade Za’atar Spice Blend


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  • Author: sophiamarkos
  • Total Time: 9 minutes
  • Yield: 115 g (roughly 7 to 8 tablespoons)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A balanced and aromatic za’atar spice blend perfect for enhancing Middle Eastern and North African dishes.


Ingredients

  • 30 g dried thyme
  • 15 g dried Greek oregano
  • 30 g ground sumac
  • 35 g sesame seeds, toasted
  • 4 g fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon Aleppo pepper


Instructions

  1. Weigh the ingredients into separate small bowls, keeping the sesame separate.
  2. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Stop toasting once the seeds are lightly golden and smell nutty, then transfer to a plate to cool.
  4. Crumble the thyme and oregano gently between your fingers into a mixing bowl.
  5. Add the sumac, salt, and Aleppo pepper to the crumbled herbs and stir until evenly mixed.
  6. Stir in the cooled toasted sesame seeds, keeping them whole.
  7. Check the texture; it should not be dusty but coarse with visible components.
  8. Taste the za’atar mixed with olive oil and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  9. Store the za’atar in a small airtight glass jar in a cool, dark cupboard.

Notes

Ensure sesame seeds are toasted lightly to avoid bitterness. Adjust the amounts of sumac and salt according to taste.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern