Zathar

In which dishes can za'atar spice blend be used?

Za'atar, Lebanon's iconic spice, offers a unique range of flavors. This subtle blend of herbs instantly transports you to the Mediterranean. At Cook-Shop, we already love incorporating it into our hummus recipe!

How to use za'atar in cooking?

Here are some delicious ideas to enhance your dishes with za'atar:

• Chicken with za'atar and preserved lemons : marinate the chicken in a teaspoon of za'atar, lemon juice and olive oil.
• Goat cheese and za'atar appetizer rolls : sprinkle two teaspoons of za'atar on a puff pastry filled with fresh goat cheese.
• Lebanese labneh : enhance this homemade cheese with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of za'atar.
• Za'atar infused oil : Infuse 50g of za'atar in one liter of olive oil for two weeks.
• Kefta skewers with za'atar : season your beef with a teaspoon of za'atar for a successful marinade.
• Preserved lemon and za'atar vinaigrette : blend the pulp of a preserved lemon with olive oil, honey, cider vinegar, and a tablespoon of za'atar.
• Zucchini, feta and za'atar cake : incorporate a tablespoon of za'atar into your cake mixture.
• Lebanese hummus with za'atar : discover the complete recipe by clicking here.

Za'atar, a popular Middle Eastern blend

This blend, with its slightly acidic and salty taste, is perfect for enhancing poultry, white meats, or even fish, whether used in marinades or during cooking. Its lemony notes make it a valuable ally in the kitchen, promising a delicious result every time.

A typical spice blend: za'atar

Za'atar is a traditional spice blend, very popular in Lebanon and throughout the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly in Syria. It consists of three main ingredients: sesame seeds, thyme, and sumac. A common way to enjoy it is with bread dipped first in olive oil and then in the za'atar. It's a simple yet delicious appetizer.

The term "za'atar" literally means "thyme" in Arabic. It is also used to refer to plants in the Lamiaceae family, such as thyme, savory, and oregano. In some countries, za'atar also refers to hyssop, an aromatic herb often associated with Levantine cuisine.

Origins of za'atar

Za'atar has its roots in Byblos, an ancient Lebanese city founded in 5000 J.-C. , known for its thriving trade with Egypt. This commercial and cultural crossroads facilitated the spread of za'atar through the centuries. Today, this spice is a staple in Lebanese cuisine, particularly prized for its rich flavor and millennia-old culinary heritage.