Zahtar Spice Blend

Zahtar, Za’atar or Zaatar is a highly versatile, herbal mix of spices including toasted sesame seeds, sumac and thyme. The spice mix is known as a gateway into Middle Eastern cuisine and it’s no surprise to learn that this spice mix dates back to ancient times. Originating in the Levantine region, which includes Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Israel and Palestine, “zahtar” comes from the Arabic word for thyme, which is one of its key ingredients.

Zahtar has become a modern kitchen staple thanks to its distinctive and aromatic flavour profile – it has a combination of earthy, nutty, and tangy notes from the thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. The spice mix is used for roasting poultry, fish and vegetables. It can season eggs, grains and salads or flavour marinades, dips and dressings.

Throughout the Middle East, Zahtar is enjoyed with bread but Arabic regions use the spice mix differently. Some mix with oil and spread over flatbreads, while others add it to the dough and bake. To offer a plate of zahtar spice blend with olive oil and bread has always been a traditional symbol of hospitality in the region – you dip the bread in the oil, then the zahtar, which creates a tasty. more-ish snack.

Learn more by reading our blog post Zahtar spice blend uncovered. Buy Zahtar in a spice tin.

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