Za’atar, also spelled as zaatar or za’tar, is a versatile and flavourful spice blend that holds a prominent place in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. It is not only a seasoning but also a cultural symbol, representing the vibrant flavours and culinary traditions of the region.

In Middle Eastern cuisine, za’atar is commonly used as a condiment or a topping. It is sprinkled over freshly baked bread, mixed with olive oil and spread on flatbreads, or used as a seasoning for grilled meats and vegetables. It can also be incorporated into marinades, dips, and dressings, adding a delightful zing to salads, roasted vegetables, or even yogurt.

With its delightful flavour and versatility, za’atar has gained popularity beyond its place of origin and can now be found in many parts of the world. Whether you’re exploring Middle Eastern cuisine or looking to add a new dimension to your dishes, za’atar is a spice blend that brings an authentic taste of the region and a touch of culinary adventure to your plate. A versatile seasoning mix that can be used in various ways. Here are some common uses for za’atar:

1. Seasoning for flatbreads: One of the most popular uses of za’atar is as a topping for flatbreads like pita or mana’eesh. You can mix za’atar with olive oil and spread it on the dough before baking to create a delicious, aromatic topping.
2. Dip: Za’atar can be mixed with olive oil to create a flavourful dip for bread. Simply dip pieces of bread into the za’atar and olive oil mixture for a tasty appetiser or snack.
3. Seasoning for roasted vegetables: Za’atar can be used to season roasted vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, potatoes, or eggplant. Toss the vegetables with olive oil and za’atar before roasting to add a Middle Eastern flair to your dishes.
4. Marinades: You can use za’atar as part of a marinade for chicken, lamb, or fish. Combine it with other ingredients like lemon juice, garlic, and yogurt to create a flavorful marinade for grilling or baking.
5. Salad topping: Sprinkle za’atar over salads to add a unique and aromatic flavour. It pairs well with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and olive oil.
6. Seasoning for rice and grains: Stir za’atar into cooked rice or grains like quinoa or couscous to infuse them with its distinctive flavour. It’s a great way to add depth to simple side dishes.
7. Seasoning for soups and stews: Za’atar can be used as a seasoning in soups and stews to enhance their flavour. Just sprinkle it into the pot and stir to incorporate.
8. Garnish: Za’atar can be used as a garnish for dishes like hummus, labneh, or yogurt-based dips. It adds both flavor and visual appeal.
9. Seasoning for roasted nuts: Coat roasted nuts with a mixture of za’atar and a little olive oil for a flavourful snack.
10. Grilled meats and kebabs: Sprinkle za’atar on grilled meats, chicken, or kebabs just before serving for an extra burst of flavor and aroma.

A few recipes to try your za’atar spice with:

1. Za’atar Roasted Vegetables: Toss your favourite vegetables (such as carrots, cauliflower, or eggplant) with olive oil, za’atar, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelised. Serve as a side dish or over couscous or quinoa.
2. Za’atar Hummus: Add a generous sprinkle of za’atar to your homemade hummus for an extra layer of flavour. It’s a great dip for pita bread, vegetables, or as a spread in sandwiches and wraps.
3. Za’atar-Crusted Salmon: Mix za’atar with breadcrumbs, olive oil, and a bit of lemon juice to create a crust for salmon fillets. Bake or pan-sear the salmon until it’s cooked to your liking. The za’atar adds a zesty, herbal flavour to the fish.
4. Za’atar Flatbread: Make a simple flatbread dough and roll it out into rounds. Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle za’atar generously over the top. Bake until the bread is golden brown and serve as a side or as a base for Mediterranean-inspired pizzas.
5. Za’atar Marinated Chicken: Create a marinade by mixing za’atar with yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil. Marinate chicken thighs or breasts for a few hours or overnight, then grill or roast them for a delicious and flavourful chicken dish.
6. Za’atar Salad Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, za’atar, garlic, and a touch of honey to create a tasty salad dressing. Drizzle it over a simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese.
7. Za’atar-Crusted Roast Lamb: Rub a mixture of za’atar, olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest over a boneless leg of lamb. Roast it in the oven until it reaches your desired level of doneness. The za’atar crust will infuse the meat with aromatic flavours.
8. Za’atar Popcorn: Sprinkle za’atar over freshly popped popcorn for a unique and savoury snack. Drizzle a bit of melted butter or olive oil over the top for added richness.
9. Za’atar Potatoes: Toss baby potatoes with za’atar, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them until crispy and tender. This makes for a delightful side dish.
10. Za’atar Dipping Oil: Combine za’atar with olive oil and a pinch of salt as a flavourful dipping sauce for crusty bread.