Lebanese Za’atar (Small Batch)
This authentic Lebanese Za’atar recipe is easy to make at home with 5 ingredients in 5 minutes flat. As a versatile Middle Eastern spice blend you can use it to season a variety of dishes – from grilled meats and vegetables to hummus and pita bread.
Za’atar – instant Lebanese flavors
Small batch: Fresh is best when it comes to spices! This recipe makes a single za’atar portion for maximum flavor. Double or triple batch this recipe as part of your meal prep routine for later.
Low-sodium seasoning: Za’atar is a naturally gluten-free spice blend that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a great way to add flavor to your food without using a lot of salt.
Choose ingredients: Just like my chipotle seasoning and harissa powder, by making these blends from scratch you’ll be able to control the quality of the ingredients used.
If you loved this Lebanese Za’atar Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating below. Thank you!
Lebanese Za’atar
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp ground sumac
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Add sesame seeds to a dry frying pan and toast over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and aromatic (Note 1).2 tbsp sesame seeds
- Once slightly cooled, combine the toasted sesame seeds with the other ingredients in a small bowl (Note 2).1 tbsp dried oregano, 2 tsp ground sumac, 2 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp salt
- Use the za'atar immediately or store it in an airtight container in a cool place for up to 3 months.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients and substitutions
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
- Sumac – It adds a tangy, lemony flavor with a hint of earthiness to the spice blend. Sumac is made from the dried, ground berries of the sumac plant.
- Sesame – Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and crunchy texture. You can use non-toasted seeds as well.
- Oregano – Dried oregano adds a warm, slightly spicy flavor to the blend.
- Thyme – Dried thyme adds a herbaceous, almost minty note to the seasoning mix.
- Salt – Sea salt enhances the overall flavors. You can use table salt as well.
Variations
Add spice: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some spice.
Go nuts: Create a dukkah-style seasoning blend by adding a tablespoon of chopped almonds for a nutty crunch.
Fresh herbs: Add fresh oregano and thyme for a fresh herbaceous flavor. Perfect as a herb crust. Double the quantity of each if using fresh herbs.
How to make Lebanese za’atar
See the recipe card for full information on the method.
1. Toast sesame seeds in a frying pan over medium heat until aromatic.
2. Add toasted seeds to a mortar or spice grinder alongside other ingredients, turn into rough crumb.
Serving ideas
- Grilled meats: Sprinkle za’atar over grilled or roasted meats, vegetables, or use it as a crust to roasted meat like my roasted lamb loin.
- Dips: Season hummus, baba ganoush, and other dips such as my Greek yogurt tzatziki or harissa yogurt.
- Sauce: Add it to olive oil for a flavorful dipping sauce.
- Topping: Sprinkle za’atar over pita bread, avocado toast, or Turkish eggs.
What’s the difference between za’atar and dukkah?
Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend, while dukkah is a versatile Egyptian mix containing nuts as well as spices.
