How to Make the Most of Za'atar in Your Home Cooking
Za'atar is a popular Middle Eastern spice blend that has been used in cooking for centuries. It is made up of a combination of herbs, spices, nuts, and seeds, and it is known for its unique and flavorful taste. If you're not familiar with this blend, you're missing out on a powerful ingredient for adding richness to the food you make. It can be used in a variety of dishes to add depth and complexity to your home cooking. Here are a few tips on how to make the most of za'atar in your home cooking.
1.Understand the blend
Za'atar typically consists of a combination of dried hyssop, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. However, the specific ingredients and ratios can vary depending on the region or recipe. Even though it is one of the most common spices in Mediterranean and Middle-East cuisine, the global culinary community is yet to fully explore it. Whenever you feel the need to add an extra dash of flavor to your dishes, use some za’atar and taste the magic.
2. Use it as a rub/marinade
Za'atar is a great spice to use as a rub for meats, fish, and vegetables. Simply mix some za'atar with olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt, and marinate chicken, lamb, fish, or vegetables before grilling or roasting. This will tenderize the meat and give your dish a delicious, smoky flavor and a spicy aroma.
3. Sprinkle it on hummus
Hummus in itself is a delicious dip, but when you add za'atar to it, the result is simply irresistible. Za’atar adds an earthy, nutty flavor and a nice crunch from the sesame seeds. Use the dip with veggie sticks, flatbread, crackers, or pita, and enjoy. Sprinkle some za'atar on top of your hummus before serving, or mix it well—whichever way you prefer!
4. Use it as a seasoning
You can use Za'atar as a seasoning on a variety of dishes, such as roasted vegetables, salads, and bread. Add za'atar to your bread dough or sprinkle it on top of roasted vegetables for an added punch of flavor. It can make even the most boring dishes taste amazing.
5. Mix it with yogurt
Another way to use Za'atar is to mix it with yogurt—you can use it as a delicious dip or spread. Mix za'atar with plain yogurt, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle salt to taste. This makes a great dip for veggies or pita, or you can spread it on sandwiches and wraps.
6. Pair it with cheese
Za'atar and cheese is a match made in heaven—oops, kitchen! You can sprinkle some za'atar on top of feta cheese, or add it to a cheese and herb spread. This is a simple but innovative way to elevate a cheese board.
7. Use with grains
When mixed with rice, quinoa, or couscous, za’atar brings a whole new level of savory flavor to your dish. Simply add za'atar to your grains, along with some other herbs and spices of your choice, and experience how beautifully it enhances the taste.
8. Experiment and be creative
With its complex and robust flavor, there are no limitations to using za'atar in home cooking. Don’t be afraid to experiment with it and see how it can improve your favorite recipes. Try it with your morning eggs, add it to your soups or even use it to make a flavorful salad dressing. There is no right or wrong way—be creative in your approach, and utilize this spice blend to take home-cooked dishes to the next level.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're grilling meats, marinating fish, or making dips and spreads, za'atar is sure to spice up any dish you prepare. Based on your preferences, you could use the traditional Lebanese Za’atar, Za’atar with Hyssop, Jaffa Za’atar, or Garlic Za’atar—the options are endless. So get started with the ideas we discussed above and use your own experiments to get to know how this unique spice can elevate your cooking and make your dishes more interesting and flavorful.