Introducing my inspired take on Easy Za’tar Spice Mix — a classic Middle Eastern spice blend with toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and herbs.
After tasting both red and green za’atar, I tried my hand at a classic red version featuring sumac. This inspired version is gluten-free and requires only 6 ingredients and 5 minutes to prepare!
I was first introduced to Za’tar on one of my jobs as a Chef. In fact, I was introduced to a lot of Middle Eastern spices and food. I loved all of them, so I decided to cook more with their spices and learn more about their cuisines.
How to Make Za’atar
It starts with toasting sesame seeds in a small skillet.
The toasted sesame seeds are then lightly crushed in a mortar and pestle (a small blender or mixing bowl will also work).
Then the other spices are added: thyme, oregano, cumin, sea salt, and sumac! Sumac? What’s sumac?!
What is Sumac?
Sumac is ground dried berry that’s rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. I love the unexpectedly bright, tart flavor of sumac, and how it blends beautifully with the sesame and herbs.
If you aren’t sure where to purchase sumac, we recommend the bulk section of a well-stocked health food store or ordering online. But to be honest, a lot of supermarkets nowadays have it. That’s where I got mine from!
I love Sumac. I like to sprinkle it on almost everything haha.
Do let me know how you found this Easy Za’tar Spice Mix if you do try it though! And if there was anything you tried or something that worked better…Do drop me a comment below, or you can find me/message me directly on Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, or Facebook! I love seeing what my lovely readers think of my recipes!
Also, I would really appreciate it if you check out my very first E-Book, it’s a 70-page book, full of beautiful, easy, and delicious vegan recipes! Click HERE to find out more!
Easy Za'tar Spice Mix
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp sesame seeds toasted
- 1 Tbsp dried thyme
- 1 Tbsp dried oregano
- 1 Tbsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 ½-2 Tbsp sumac
Instructions
- If using untoasted sesame seeds, heat a small skillet over low to medium heat. Add sesame seeds and toast for a few minutes or until lightly golden brown, stirring frequently.
- Transfer toasted sesame seeds to a mortar, small blender, or small mixing bowl, along with thyme, oregano, cumin, sea salt, and sumac. Use either the pestle, blender or a spoon to combine the mixture.
- Taste test and adjust as needed, adding more cumin for smokiness, salt to taste, sumac for tartness, thyme for floral notes, oregano for a woodsy taste, or sesame seeds for sesame flavor and more texture.
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