Za’atar – Lebanese spice mix
Course: Starters, Dips and SpreadsCuisine: Middle Eastern, Vegetarian, VeganDifficulty: EasyPrep time
5
minutesThe za’atar spice mix is commonly consumed in Middle Eastern countries where it originates from. It is very versatile and allows us to season all kinds of food, from meat, fish and vegetables, but also breads and cakes. Its greatest originality is the presence of sumac, which gives it a slightly acid touch.
Ingredients
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
2 tbsp oregano
4 tbsp sumac powder
2 tbsp marjoram
2 tbsp thyme
1 natural sea salt
Directions
- To make the Za’atar spice mix, combine all the ingredients except the sesame and salt well and grind them in a mortar, preferably a stone one. It does not have to be a dust, but the largest leaves should disappear.
- Once ground, add the sesame and salt, mix well and store in an airtight jar.
- Use at your discretion as a dip mixed with oil, in stews, to season meats, fish, …
- If the sesame seeds were not toasted, you can do it in a pan over low heat, without oil, stirring constantly so that they do not burn.
Notes
- HEALTH BENEFITS OF ZA’ATAR: It contains flavonoids. Sumac is an excellent source of flavonoids, which act as antioxidants in the body to prevent chronic conditions and improve enzyme function. Sumac has long been used as an ayurvedic medicine to treat illness.
- It boosts polyphenols. These are potent plant-based antioxidants found in thyme and oregano. They help fight free radicals in the body to prevent cancer.
- It is anti-inflammatory. Sesame seeds have certain anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation can worsen conditions like diabetes, heart, and kidney disease. And seeds like flax, sesame, and chia, help reduce inflammation.
- It contains many vitamins. Za’atar is also an excellent source of vitamins A, C, E and K. All of these are essential vitamins that play a role in metabolism, immune functioning, skin health, and more.
