5 Ways to Use Zaatar Spice (with Recipes)

Zaatar is one of the most versatile and flavorful spice blends from the Middle East. Known for its earthy, tangy, and slightly nutty flavor, zaatar has been cherished for centuries, not only for its taste but also for its medicinal properties. Often referred to in English as Bible hyssop or Syrian oregano, it is traditionally made from Origanum syriacum, combined with thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and other herbs and spices.

While it originates in the Levant region, particularly Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, its popularity has spread worldwide due to the growing fascination with Middle Eastern cuisine. Zaatar is celebrated not only for its unique flavor but also for its nutritional and health benefits—it is rich in antioxidants, iron, calcium, and vitamins, earning the nickname “brain food” in some cultures.

This article explores what zaatar is, its taste, history, health benefits, and five practical ways to use it in your cooking, complete with recipes.

What is Zaatar?

Zaatar is both the name of a spice blend and a term that literally translates to thyme in Arabic. While thyme forms the base of the blend, the magic of zaatar comes from combining herbs with sumac, which adds a tangy citrus-like flavor, and toasted sesame seeds, which add a nutty richness. Other regional variations may include oregano, marjoram, savory, or even cumin.

Taste Profile

Zaatar has a complex flavor profile:

• Earthy and herbal from thyme and oregano

• Tangy and lemony from sumac

• Nutty from sesame seeds

• Aromatic and slightly pungent, making it perfect for both savory and sweet applications

This balance of flavors makes zaatar unique among spice blends. It is both bold enough to season meats and subtle enough to sprinkle over bread or yogurt.

Forms and Sizes

Zaatar is available in multiple forms:

• Coarse blend: retains the texture of herbs and seeds

• Powdered form: smoother, easier to mix into recipes

• Sizes: Most commonly sold in 50–100 gram packs, though larger quantities are available online or in Middle Eastern specialty stores

Whether you buy it online, from a Middle Eastern store, or even make it at home, the quality of zaatar can vary based on the freshness of its ingredients and the roasting of the sesame seeds.

A Brief History of Zaatar

The use of herbs like thyme and oregano in cooking can be traced back to ancient civilizations, including the Romans and Egyptians. The Romans used thyme not only to flavor food but also in their baths and as incense. When Arabs invaded the Iberian Peninsula, they introduced Middle Eastern herbs and spices, including zaatar, which influenced early Spanish cuisine.

In the Levant, zaatar has been a dietary staple for centuries, often enjoyed at breakfast or lunch. Traditionally, it is mixed with olive oil and spread on bread, creating a dish that has been called “the breakfast of the Middle East.” Over time, its popularity expanded beyond the region, and today it can be found in international kitchens, from Greek salads to Mediterranean-inspired pizzas.

Health Benefits of Zaatar

Zaatar is celebrated not just for its flavor but also for its nutritional and medicinal properties:

1. Rich in antioxidants: Sumac and thyme contribute to its antioxidant content, which helps protect cells from damage.

2. Anti-inflammatory properties: The combination of herbs may reduce inflammation and promote overall wellness.

3. High in minerals: Zaatar contains calcium, iron, and magnesium, essential for bone health and energy production.

4. Brain health: Traditional medicine considers zaatar a cognitive booster, sometimes called “brain food.”

5. Digestive aid: Herbs in the blend, like thyme and oregano, can help support healthy digestion.

This dual role as a culinary and medicinal spice is one of the reasons zaatar has remained popular for centuries.

5 Ways to Use Zaatar Spice

Zaatar is incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into everyday dishes or special recipes. Here are five ways to use it:

1. Zaatar Chicken

Zaatar can transform ordinary chicken into a flavorful Middle Eastern dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts or thighs

• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons zaatar spice blend

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, zaatar, salt, and pepper.

2. Coat the chicken with the mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).

3. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) or prepare a grill.

4. Bake or grill the chicken for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.

5. Serve over pita bread with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.

The zaatar adds a fragrant, herbal flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy yogurt and tangy vegetables.

2. Zaatar and Sandwiches

Zaatar can be turned into a simple yet delicious sandwich filling:

Ingredients:

• Pita bread

• 2 tablespoons zaatar

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or softened butter

• Optional: sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, or feta cheese

Instructions:

1. Mix zaatar with olive oil or butter to form a paste.

2. Spread generously over the pita bread.

3. Add sliced vegetables or cheese if desired.

4. Fold or grill the pita for a warm, crispy texture.

This makes a perfect breakfast or snack, reminiscent of traditional Levantine street food.

3. Zaatar in Eggs

Sprinkle zaatar over eggs to elevate breakfast:

Instructions:

1. Whisk 2–3 eggs in a bowl, season lightly with salt.

2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter.

3. Pour the eggs into the pan and cook gently.

4. Sprinkle 1–2 teaspoons of zaatar over the eggs before folding into an omelet or scrambling.

The herbaceous aroma of zaatar gives the eggs a Middle Eastern twist that is both fragrant and flavorful. You can even add zaatar to scrambled eggs with sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added depth.

4. Zaatar with Dips

Zaatar pairs beautifully with hummus, baba ghanoush, or labneh:

Herbed Goat Cheese Recipe:

• 1/2 cup soft goat cheese

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon zaatar

Instructions:

1. Mash the goat cheese in a bowl until smooth.

2. Stir in olive oil, lemon juice, and zaatar.

3. Serve with raw vegetables, pita bread, or crackers.

Zaatar adds a fragrant, earthy flavor to dips and spreads, making them perfect for entertaining or as a healthy snack.

5. Zaatar on Bread and Pita

One of the simplest ways to enjoy zaatar is as a topping for bread:

Instructions:

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of zaatar with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.

2. Brush the mixture onto pita, flatbread, or focaccia.

3. Toast in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes until golden.

This makes a quick appetizer or breakfast, perfect with cheese, yogurt, or fresh vegetables. You can also use zaatar as a finishing sprinkle over popcorn, roasted vegetables, or even pizza for a unique flavor.

Tips for Using Zaatar

1. Freshness matters: Store zaatar in an airtight container, away from sunlight and heat, to preserve flavor.

2. Mix with olive oil: This enhances the flavor and makes it a perfect topping for bread and vegetables.

3. Experiment with meats: Zaatar works with chicken, lamb, beef, and even fish.

4. Use as a garnish: Sprinkle over yogurt, salads, or roasted vegetables to add aroma and taste.

5. Make your own blend: Combine thyme, oregano, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt to create a personalized version of zaatar.

Where to Buy Zaatar

If you are not familiar with zaatar, it may be challenging to find in regular grocery stores. Look for it at:

• Middle Eastern specialty stores

• Online marketplaces (Amazon, specialty food websites)

• Brands like Zaytoun or Al Wadi

When buying, choose blends with visible sesame seeds and herbs for the freshest flavor. Avoid pre-ground powders that have been sitting on shelves for a long time, as the oils in the spices can degrade over time.

Conclusion

Zaatar is more than just a spice blend—it’s a culinary tradition that carries centuries of history and culture. Its bold, tangy, and nutty flavor makes it versatile enough to enhance meats, eggs, breads, dips, and more. Whether you are exploring Middle Eastern cuisine or simply looking to add a new flavor to your cooking, zaatar is a must-have spice in your kitchen.

From zaatar chicken to herbed goat cheese, there are countless ways to enjoy this aromatic herb blend. Its combination of taste, health benefits, and cultural significance makes it a truly unique addition to your spice collection.

So grab some zaatar, experiment with the recipes above, and bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your home!