Homemade Za’atar Spice Mix
A simple homemade za’atar blend made with dried Origanum syriacum, sumac and toasted sesame seeds. This version keeps the herb firmly in the lead so the flavour of the actual za’atar plant comes through.Video coming soon.
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Servings: About ½ cup / 1 small jar
Calories: 9kcal
Ingredients
- 1 small bunch Fresh za’atar, Origanum syriacum sprigs enough to yield 4 Tbsp dried leaves
- 1½ Tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp ground sumac
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt or to taste
Instructions
- Dry and prepare the za’atar first. If you already have access to dried Origanum syriacum, move on to Step 3.Spread the fresh za’atar sprigs in a single layer in a dehydrator and dry at 35°C until the leaves are completely crisp and crumble easily between your fingers.
- Strip the dried leaves from the stems.Once completely cool, rub the leaves from the stems and discard the woody stalks.Pass through a medium sieve if needed to remove coarse stem pieces.Measure out 4 Tbsp dried leaves.
- Toast the sesame seeds. Place the sesame seeds in a dry frying pan over medium-low heat and toast until lightly golden and fragrant. Tip them onto a plate immediately and leave to cool.
- Crush the dried za’atar. Rub the leaves between your fingers or palms until fairly fine, removing any remaining woody pieces. Don’t grind them to a powder.
- Mix the za’atar. Combine the dried herb, toasted sesame, sumac and salt in a small bowl.
- Add more sumac for extra tartness, more sesame for nuttiness, or more dried za’atar if you want a greener, more aromatic blend.
- Store. Transfer to a clean, airtight jar and keep in a cool, dark cupboard.
Notes
As mentioned, you can also use za'atar to marinate meat and seafood, whether to roast, cook on the stove or on the barbecue. Add some olive oil or yoghurt to turn it into a wet marinade.
Nutrition
Serving: 1Tbsp | Calories: 9kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.4g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Sodium: 74mg | Potassium: 9mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.01g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 0.003mg | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 0.3mg
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