Lebanese Zaatar - Oriental blend

The origins of zaatar

In Arabic, za'tar means "thyme. That's good, there is thyme in the Lebanese zaatar that I propose to you! As its name suggests, this spice blend comes from Lebanon, although it is found more generally throughout the Middle East. In this region of the world, the Lebanese zaatar is a mixture of essential spices that can be found in the most traditional dishes such as falafels (chickpea croquettes), hummus (this delicious chickpea puree) or sprinkled on katayef, this delicious Levantine pastry. From appetizer to dessert, the Lebanese put zaatar everywhere. And we understand why once we have tasted it. Like all spice mixtures, zaatar can vary from one kitchen to another. Everyone can make a homemade Lebanese zaatar according to his taste. The one I suggest is composed of white sesame, sumac, salt, thyme, celery and mustard. Some people add oregano, others add chili pepper, which also works very well. For the record, sumac is a burgundy red spice that is both acidic and lemony and adds flavor to grilled meat dishes in particular.

A matter of taste

This mixture of spices and aromatic herbs is very fragrant. The thyme brings freshness while the sumac develops notes of acidity counterbalanced by the sweetness of the white sesame with its delicious nutty taste. The mustard adds a subtle power to the blend. This spice blend is perfect for those who don't like spicy blends.

Lebanese zaatar in cooking

It is particularly recommended for adding flavor to vegetable dishes. In an eggplant caviar, it will bring that little oriental flavor that makes the difference. On tomatoes "à la provençale" on the barbecue, forget the traditional French spices and go for a delicious gustatory trip to Lebanon. I also suggest you make beautiful oriental beef meatballs. Simply chop a little garlic and onion and mix with your beef and the Lebanese zaatar mixture. Shape the meatballs and fry them in olive oil. And because it's always interesting to mix flavors from around the world, why not put zaatar on a pizza? On bruschetta with tomato, olive oil and parma ham, again, this spice blend will surprise you. This blend is also suitable for white meat dishes (turkey, chicken) and, of course,lamb. If you are a pastry lover, discover some oriental pastry recipes on which you will sprinkle a little Lebanese zaatar. This blend of spices, while it reveals all its flavors in hot dishes, can also be eaten cold. Make a delicious cucumber and tomato salad with a zaatar vinaigrette. As an appetizer, serve goat cheese skewers sprinkled with this spice blend. Only your imagination will determine the limits of the use of these Lebanese spices.

The conservation of this spice

I advise you to keep my hermetic bag of Lebanese zaatar in a place protected from light, heat and humidity. You can choose to keep your spices in this bag or in an opaque airtight jar.