Zesty Spicy Za'atar Blend
Elevate your dishes with this Zesty Spicy Za'atar Blend, a vibrant twist on traditional za'atar originating from Northern Africa. This unique seasoning marries the tangy notes of ground sumac with the earthy richness of toasted sesame seeds, enhanced by the aromatic depth of dried thyme and a kick of cayenne pepper. Perfect for enhancing tagines, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even sprinkled over pita sandwiches for an irresistible flavor boost. This blend not only adds a burst of flavor but also offers a delightful crunch, making it a versatile staple in your spice collection. Embrace the culinary journey with this recipe adapted from the Flavors of Africa Cookbook, masterfully crafted by chili pepper expert Dave DeWitt.
N/A
Servings
14
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Toasted sesame seeds
2 (tablespoons)
Ground sumac
2 (tablespoons)
Dried thyme
1 (tablespoon)
Cayenne pepper
1 (teaspoon)
Instructions
1
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
2
Once toasted, remove the sesame seeds from the heat and let them cool completely.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled sesame seeds, ground sumac, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper.
4
Use a whisk or a fork to blend the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
5
Transfer the spice mixture into an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place for up to six months. Use as desired to enhance your favorite dishes.
Nutrition Information
1g
Fat
0.6g
Carbs
0.5g
Protein
0.25g
Fiber
0g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Spicy Za'atar Blend?
It is a vibrant, spicy twist on traditional za'atar seasoning originating from Northern Africa, featuring sumac, sesame, thyme, and cayenne.
What are the main ingredients in this spice blend?
The recipe includes toasted sesame seeds, ground sumac, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper.
How do you toast the sesame seeds for this recipe?
Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden and fragrant, stirring frequently.
How long can I store the Zesty Spicy Za'atar Blend?
You can store the mixture in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to six months.
Is this za'atar blend spicy?
Yes, this version includes cayenne pepper to provide a spicy kick compared to traditional blends.
What dishes pair well with this seasoning?
It is perfect for tagines, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and pita sandwiches.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this spice blend consists entirely of plant-based ingredients and is suitable for a vegan diet.
What is the source of this recipe?
This recipe is adapted from the Flavors of Africa Cookbook by chili pepper expert Dave DeWitt.
How many calories are in a serving of this blend?
There are approximately 14 calories per serving.
Does the blend contain any sugar?
No, this recipe contains 0g of sugar.
What provides the tangy flavor in the blend?
The ground sumac provides the characteristic tangy and citrusy notes.
How much cayenne pepper is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
What is the role of sesame seeds in this recipe?
Sesame seeds add earthy richness and a delightful crunch to the seasoning.
How much sumac is required?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of ground sumac.
Can I use this as a Moroccan seasoning?
Yes, it is specifically tagged as a Moroccan seasoning and North African cuisine staple.
Should the sesame seeds be cooled before mixing?
Yes, once toasted, you must let the sesame seeds cool completely before combining them with other ingredients.
What tools should I use to mix the spices?
You can use a whisk or a fork to blend the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Is there any fat in this seasoning?
Each serving contains approximately 1g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 0.6g of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this blend contain protein?
Yes, there is approximately 0.5g of protein per serving.
How much fiber is in the blend?
The blend contains 0.25g of fiber per serving.
What is the recommended storage container?
An airtight container is recommended to maintain the freshness and aroma of the spices.
Is this seasoning good for pita bread?
Yes, it is specifically recommended as a topping for pita bread and sandwiches.
Who is Dave DeWitt?
Dave DeWitt is a chili pepper expert and the author of the Flavors of Africa Cookbook.
Can this be used for herbal spice applications?
Yes, it is categorized under herbal spices due to the inclusion of dried thyme.
What type of thyme should I use?
The recipe specifies using 1 tablespoon of dried thyme.
Is there any sodium in this recipe?
According to the nutritional data provided, the sodium content is null/negligible.
How many ingredients total are in the recipe?
There are 4 main ingredients: sesame seeds, sumac, thyme, and cayenne.
Does this blend contain cholesterol?
No, the cholesterol content is listed as null.
What is the preparation time for toasting the seeds?
Toasting the sesame seeds takes approximately 2 to 3 minutes over medium heat.