Za'atar is a popular Middle Eastern spice blend that has been used for centuries in Lebanese cuisine. This aromatic and flavorful blend is a staple in Lebanese households, used in a variety of dishes from meats and vegetables to dips and spreads. In this article, we will take a closer look at the traditional Lebanese za'atar recipe and how to make it at home in just a few simple steps.
Main Ingredients: Carrots, Green Beans, Olive Oil, Za Atar, Salt, Pepper
If you're tired of the same old vegetable side dishes, you have to try this Za'atar roasted carrots and green beans. The Middle Eastern spice blend adds a unique and delicious flavor to these roasted vegetables. Plus, it's a simple and healthy dish that pairs perfectly with any main course.
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Za'atar Spiced Grilled Chicken
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Olive Oil, Lemon
Looking for a new way to spice up your grilled chicken? Look no further than this Za'atar spiced grilled chicken recipe. The aromatic blend of herbs and spices adds a depth of flavor to the chicken, making it a standout dish for any summer barbecue.
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Baked Sweet Potato Fries With Za'atar
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Olive Oil, Za Atar, Kosher Salt, Garlic
Sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to regular fries. But why not take them to the next level with the addition of Za'atar? These baked sweet potato fries with Za'atar are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for snacking on any time of the day.
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Effie's Easy and Amazing Cottage Cheese Salad with...
Main Ingredients: Persian Cucumbers, Fresh Tomatoes, Green Onion, Sliced
If you're looking for a light and refreshing salad that packs a punch of flavor, you have to try Effie's easy and amazing cottage cheese salad with Za'atar. The creamy cottage cheese pairs perfectly with the tangy Za'atar dressing, making it a salad you'll want to make again and again.
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Lebanese Cheese Fatayer
Main Ingredients: Pizza Dough, Feta, Yogurt, Mozzarella, Parsley, Nutmeg
Lebanese cheese fatayer is a delicious savory pastry filled with a blend of cheeses and topped with Za'atar. These little pockets of goodness are perfect for snacking on or serving as an appetizer at your next party. Plus, they're surprisingly easy to make!
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Grilled Eggplant and Zucchini with Za’atar Vinagrette
Main Ingredients: Japanese Eggplants, Zucchini, Olive Oil, Kosher Salt
Eggplant and zucchini are the perfect summer vegetables to throw on the grill. But why not take them to the next level with a drizzle of Za'atar vinaigrette? The combination of the grilled veggies and the tangy dressing is a match made in heaven.
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Raw Cauliflower Couscous Salad with Za'atar
Main Ingredients: Cauliflower, English Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, Pitted
Cauliflower is all the rage these days, and for a good reason. It's a healthy and versatile vegetable that can be used in many ways. This raw cauliflower couscous salad with Za'atar is a perfect example. The Za'atar adds a delicious and unexpected flavor to this light and refreshing salad.
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Za'atar Grilled Chicken
Main Ingredients: Bone In Chicken Thighs, Extra Light Olive Oil, Lemon
This Za'atar grilled chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of Za'atar, lemon juice, and olive oil, resulting in tender and juicy chicken with a punch of flavor.
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Za'atar Pull-Apart Bread
Main Ingredients: Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Sugar, Unsalted Butter, All
Who doesn't love a good pull-apart bread? This Za'atar pull-apart bread is a fun and delicious twist on the classic garlic bread. The combination of the soft and buttery bread and the flavorful Za'atar is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
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Crispy Za'atar Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Za Atar, Salt, Pepper, Scallions
Potatoes are a staple in many households, but it's easy to get stuck in a rut with the same old recipes. These crispy Za'atar potatoes are a delicious and unique way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. The Za'atar adds a crispy and flavorful coating to the potatoes, making them a perfect side dish or snack.
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Avocado-Feta Toast with Za'atar
Main Ingredients: Sesame, Avocado, Feta, Za Atar, Sliced Tomato, Coarse
Toast is a go-to breakfast for many people, but why not switch things up with this avocado-feta toast with Za'atar? The creamy avocado and tangy feta cheese pair perfectly with the flavorful Za'atar, making this toast a savory and satisfying breakfast option.
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Grilled Za'atar Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Za Atar, Kosher Salt, Ground Black Pepper
Chicken thighs are often overlooked in favor of chicken breasts, but they are a tasty and affordable cut of meat. These grilled Za'atar chicken thighs are a delicious way to enjoy this underrated cut. The Za'atar adds a flavorful crust to the chicken, making it a standout dish.
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Za'atar Tofu
Main Ingredients: Extra Firm Tofu, Apple Cider Vinegar, Tamari, Water
If you're looking for a vegetarian option that's still packed with flavor, you have to try Za'atar tofu. This dish is perfect for those who are new to cooking with tofu. The Za'atar adds a delicious and unique flavor to the tofu, making it a dish that even meat-lovers will enjoy.
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Za'atar Rubbed Baked Eggplant
Main Ingredients: Eggplants, Olive Oil, Black Pepper, Sea Salt, Za Atar
Eggplant is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in many different ways. This Za'atar rubbed baked eggplant is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this vegetable. The Za'atar adds a flavorful and crispy coating to the eggplant, making it a perfect side dish or main course for a vegetarian meal.
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Lebanese Za’atar Spice Blend
Main Ingredients: Dried Thyme, Sesame Seeds, Ground Sumac, Salt, Ground
If you're feeling adventurous, why not try making your own Za'atar spice blend? This Lebanese Za'atar spice blend is easy to make and can be used in a variety of dishes. Plus, it's a great way to add a Middle Eastern flair to your cooking.
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Za'atar Focaccia
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Warm Water, Olive Oil, All Purpose
Focaccia is a delicious and versatile bread that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for sandwiches. This Za'atar focaccia takes this classic bread to the next level with the addition of the flavorful spice blend. It's perfect for dipping in olive oil or using as a base for your favorite sandwich.
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Za’atar Manaqish
Main Ingredients: Lukewarm Water, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Unbleached All
Manaqish is a popular Middle Eastern flatbread that's often topped with Za'atar. This Za'atar manaqish recipe is a fun and tasty way to enjoy this traditional dish. The combination of the soft and chewy bread and the flavorful Za'atar is a match made in heaven.
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Za’atar Roast Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Legs, Red Onions, Garlic, Lemon, Ground Sumac
Roast chicken is a classic comfort food that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions. But why not spice things up with this Za'atar roast chicken? The Za'atar adds a delicious and unexpected flavor to the chicken, making it a standout dish.
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Hummus with Za'atar
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Tahini, Garlic, Lemon Juice, Salt, Cumin
Hummus is a staple in many households, but it's easy to get stuck in a rut with the same old recipe. This hummus with Za'atar is a fun and tasty twist on the classic dip. The Za'atar adds a depth of flavor to the hummus, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
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Za’atar Deviled Eggs
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Light Sour Cream, Dijon Mustard, Pickle Juice
Deviled eggs are a classic party appetizer that can be easily customized with different flavors and seasonings. These Za'atar deviled eggs are a unique and delicious twist on the traditional recipe. The Za'atar adds a tangy and savory kick to the creamy egg filling, making it a must-try for any egg lover.
The Ingredients
Sumac
One of the key ingredients in Lebanese za'atar is sumac, a deep red spice made from dried and ground berries. Sumac adds a tangy and slightly citrusy flavor to the blend, giving it a unique and distinct taste.
Thyme
Thyme is another essential ingredient in za'atar, providing a delicate and earthy flavor to the blend. It is usually dried and ground before being added to the mix.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are a common ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine and are a crucial component of za'atar. These tiny seeds add a subtle nutty flavor and a bit of crunch to the spice mix.
Salt
A pinch of salt is necessary to balance out the flavors in za'atar and enhance the overall taste of the blend.
The Recipe
Making Lebanese za'atar at home is a simple process that requires minimal effort and ingredients. All you need to do is mix the above ingredients in equal proportions and store the blend in an airtight container. You can adjust the amounts according to your taste preferences, but the traditional Lebanese recipe calls for equal parts of each ingredient.
Optional Additions
While the traditional Lebanese za'atar recipe only calls for four ingredients, you can add other herbs and spices to customize the blend to your liking. Some popular additions include oregano, marjoram, cumin, and coriander.
How to Use Za'atar
Lebanese za'atar is a versatile spice blend that can be used in various ways. It is commonly sprinkled on top of dips like hummus or baba ghanoush, mixed with olive oil to create a delicious marinade for meats, or used as a seasoning for roasted vegetables. You can also sprinkle it on top of bread before baking to create a flavorful and aromatic za'atar bread.
Now that you know the traditional Lebanese za'atar recipe and how to use it, you can experiment with different dishes and add a touch of Middle Eastern flavor to your meals. So go ahead and try making your own za'atar at home, and elevate your dishes with this delicious spice blend.