Za'atar (or zahtar or zatar) is an earthy Middle Eastern spice blend that can contain a variety of different ingredients such as toasted sesame seeds, marjoram, thyme, cumin, oregano, sumac and sea salt. Each country has its own unique style of za'atar, and each family develops their own mix. Traditionally, it is sprinkled on labneh (yogurt cheese) with olive oil and served with warm bread. It's also mixed into bread dough and baked. Za'atar makes a zesty crust for white fish and meats as well as a delicious vegetable or lentil seasoning. It can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Start sprinkling to explore your favorite ways to enjoy it.
Special Diets:
Ingredients
Method
Place the yogurt in a cheesecloth-lined colander set over a bowl and refrigerate overnight (skip this step if using prepared labneh).
Discard liquid and set aside thickened yogurt.
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Place pitas or flatbread in single layer on baking sheets and brush the flatbreads on both sides with 2 teaspoons of the olive oil. Set aside.
Heat a heavy skillet over medium high heat.
Add sesame seeds and toast, stirring often, until fragrant and golden, 2 to 3 minutes.
In small food processor, pulse marjoram, thyme, sea salt, paprika and cumin until nearly a powder, 1 to 2 minutes.
Pour mixture into a small bowl and add sesame seeds.
Stir to combine.
Sprinkle about half the za'atar spice mixture onto pita or flatbread.
If using pita, bake until crispy, about 15 minutes. If using flatbread, bake until warm, about 10 minutes.
Place strained yogurt in medium bowl and drizzle with remaining 1/2 teaspoon olive oil and sprinkle with za'atar to taste.
Serve alongside flatbread or pita.
Nutritional Info
Serving Size
Calories
190
Total Fat
Saturated Fat
Cholesterol
Sodium
Total Carbohydrate
Dietary Fiber
Total Sugars
Protein
Note: We've provided special diet and nutritional information for educational purposes. But remember - we're cooks, not doctors! You should follow the advice of your health-care provider. And since product formulations change, check product labels for the most recent ingredient information. See our Terms of Service.