Mediterranean Za'atar Spice Blend
Experience the essence of the Middle East with this aromatic and versatile Mediterranean Za'atar Spice Blend. This mixture, rich in flavor and heritage, combines fragrant herbs and tangy sumac with the nutty crunch of toasted sesame seeds. Use it to elevate your culinary creations—from drizzling it over creamy hummus and fresh pita bread, to seasoning roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even salads. It's a simple yet powerful way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Perfect for sharing with friends and family, this blend will transport you to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking a bustling market, where the air is scented with spices and fresh herbs.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dried Thyme
1/2 cup (dried)
Sumac
1/4 cup (ground)
Sea Salt
1/2 teaspoon (fine)
Dehydrated Onion
1/4 cup (dried)
Toasted Sesame Seeds
2 tablespoons (toasted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2
Spread the sesame seeds evenly on a small sheet pan or pie plate.
3
Toast the sesame seeds in the preheated oven for about 6 minutes, or until they are golden and fragrant, stirring once halfway through to ensure even toasting.
4
In a bowl, combine the dried thyme, sumac, sea salt, dehydrated onion, and toasted sesame seeds.
5
Pulse the mixture in a spice mill or a blender until it reaches a fine powder consistency. You may need to grind in two batches if your appliance is small.
6
Once ground, transfer the za'atar spice blend into an airtight container to maintain freshness.
7
Store the spice mixture in a cool, dark place for up to 3 to 4 months, shaking the container occasionally to mix the ingredients.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Za'atar Spice Blend?
It is an aromatic and versatile Middle Eastern spice mixture combining fragrant herbs, tangy sumac, and toasted sesame seeds.
What are the primary ingredients in this blend?
The main ingredients are dried thyme, ground sumac, fine sea salt, dehydrated onion, and toasted sesame seeds.
How should the sesame seeds be toasted?
Spread the sesame seeds evenly on a sheet pan and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
What temperature should the oven be for toasting seeds?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How long does it take to toast the sesame seeds?
It takes about 6 minutes, or until the seeds are golden and fragrant.
How do I ensure the sesame seeds toast evenly?
Stir the seeds once halfway through the toasting process to ensure even browning.
What equipment is needed to grind the spice blend?
You should use a spice mill or a blender to pulse the mixture into a fine powder.
What should I do if my spice mill is too small for the mixture?
You may need to grind the mixture in two separate batches if your appliance is small.
How should the finished Za'atar be stored?
Transfer the blend into an airtight container and store it in a cool, dark place.
How long will the Mediterranean Za'atar Spice Blend stay fresh?
The mixture can be stored for up to 3 to 4 months to maintain its freshness.
Is this spice blend recipe vegan?
Yes, the recipe uses plant-based herbs, seeds, and spices, making it suitable for a vegan diet.
What can I serve with Za'atar spice blend?
It is excellent for drizzling over hummus, seasoning pita bread, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or salads.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make approximately 8 servings.
How much dried thyme is used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of dried thyme.
What amount of sumac is needed?
You will need 1/4 cup of ground sumac.
What is the measurement for dehydrated onion?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of dehydrated onion.
How many sesame seeds are used?
The blend uses 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds.
How much salt is included in the mixture?
The recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt.
What kind of texture should the final blend have?
The mixture should be pulsed until it reaches a fine powder consistency.
Do I need to do anything while the spice blend is in storage?
You should shake the container occasionally to keep the ingredients well mixed.
What flavor does sumac contribute to the blend?
Sumac provides a tangy and slightly citrusy flavor to the Mediterranean spice mixture.
What role do sesame seeds play in the recipe?
Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch and flavor to the blend.
Where does this spice blend originate from?
This blend is categorized as being from Southwest Asia, specifically the Middle East.
Can I use Za'atar on fresh pita bread?
Yes, it is a traditional and delicious way to enjoy the spice blend.
Is the sea salt used fine or coarse?
The recipe specifies using fine sea salt.
What should the sesame seeds look like when they are done toasting?
They should appear golden and be fragrant.
Is the onion used fresh or dried?
The recipe specifically calls for dehydrated onion.
Can I use this as a seasoning for grilled meats?
Yes, it is highly recommended as a powerful way to season and elevate grilled meats.
Is there any cholesterol in this spice blend?
The recipe information indicates that there is no cholesterol in this spice blend.
Can I add this to my salad?
Yes, the blend is versatile enough to be used as a seasoning for various salads.