Zaatar is a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend that is made from a combination of dried thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. It is often used as a condiment or dip, and it can also be used as a seasoning for meats, vegetables, and salads. With countless recipes available, finding the best version of zaatar can be both exciting and challenging. This article aims to guide you through the culinary journey of zaatar, providing insights into the different variations, flavor profiles, and cooking techniques to help you discover the perfect recipe that tantalizes your taste buds. Whether you prefer a classic blend or a more innovative take on this centuries-old spice mix, this article will equip you with the knowledge to create a truly unforgettable zaatar extended version.
Let's cook with our recipes!
ZA'ATAR
Provided by Alton Brown
Time 5m
Yield 2 tablespoons
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Put all of the ingredients into a spice grinder and pulse until a powder is formed, about 30 to 45 seconds. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
HOMEMADE ZA'ATAR
This za'atar spice recipe is easy to make at home from scratch with just four ingredients. While in Lebanon wild thyme is used, regular thyme from the supermarket or your garden makes a fine substitute. Za'atar refers both to the thyme plant itself, as well as this spice mix.
Provided by Serena
Categories World Cuisine Recipes Middle Eastern Lebanese
Time 8m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until just golden, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Combine sesame seeds, thyme leaves, sumac, and salt in a bowl and stir until well combined.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 29.4 calories, Carbohydrate 1.8 g, Fat 2.3 g, Fiber 1 g, Protein 1 g, SaturatedFat 0.3 g, Sodium 194.7 mg
ZA'ATAR
Za'atar, the Middle Eastern spice mixture is so delicious we suggest doubling the recipe and using the extra for a snack: Dunk some bread (such as pita) in flavorful olive oil and then in the za'atar.
Categories Condiment/Spread No-Cook Quick & Easy Summer Gourmet
Yield Makes about 5 tablespoons
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Stir together all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Available at Middle Eastern markets and by mail order from Kalustyan's (212-685-3451).
ZA'ATAR EXTENDED VERSION
This is the Za'atar Spice Mix I get in our local oriental store. It contains more spices than usual za'atar and reminds me a bit of dukka. Like a mix of za'atar and dukka, and I like it very much.
Provided by Mia in Germany
Categories < 30 Mins
Time 25m
Yield 2 1/2 cups, 2-3 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- In a dry pan toast 3 tablespoons sesame seeds, almonds and sunflower seeds.
- When slightly toasted, remove from pan into a bowl to cool, toast the additional tablespoon sesame seeds, too, and let cool on a seperate plate.
- Put coriander, anise, fennel and cumin into the pan and toast until fragrant.
- Remove from pan into another bowl, let cool.
- When seeds and spices are completely cooled, put all except the additional tablespoon sesame seeds, thyme, sumac and salt into spice grinder (or coffee grinder or food processor), grind until halfway powdery, then add sea salt, thyme and sumac and just give it one more whizz to blend.
- Add in the additional tablespoon whole sesame seeds, blend with a wire whisk.
- Store in an airtight container.
ZA'ATAR
A fragrant Middle Eastern mix that will instantly add a savoury spice to any dish
Provided by Miriam Nice
Time 7m
Yield makes 8
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Lightly toast the cumin seeds in a dry pan, just until they start to release their aroma. Grind them to a fine powder using a pestle and mortar then stir in all the other ingredients plus 2 tsp salt and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper. It is now ready to use in your recipes, but will keep in a clean jar or airtight container for a month.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 26 calories, Fat 2 grams fat, SaturatedFat 0.3 grams saturated fat, Carbohydrate 0.2 grams carbohydrates, Sugar 0.1 grams sugar, Fiber 1 grams fiber, Protein 1 grams protein, Sodium 1.24 milligram of sodium
Tips:
- Use fresh herbs: The fresher the herbs, the more flavorful your za'atar will be. If possible, use herbs that you have grown yourself or that are from a local farmer's market.
- Toast the spices: Toasting the spices before grinding them will bring out their flavor and make them more aromatic. You can toast the spices in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or you can place them in a baking dish and toast them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes.
- Grind the spices finely: The finer you grind the spices, the better they will blend together and the more evenly they will distribute their flavor. You can use a mortar and pestle to grind the spices, or you can use a spice grinder or a coffee grinder.
- Store za'atar in an airtight container: Za'atar can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months. However, for the best flavor, it is best to use it within 3 months.
Conclusion:
Za'atar is a versatile spice blend that can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes. It is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine, but it is also becoming increasingly popular in other parts of the world. Za'atar is a great way to add a boost of flavor to grilled meats, vegetables, and fish. It can also be used as a dip for bread or pita chips. With its unique flavor and versatility, za'atar is a spice blend that is sure to please everyone.
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