Za’atar Spice Blend

I was introduced to za’atar spice blend this year and it’s easily become one of my favorites.

It’s middle eastern roots bring together the perfect marriage of spices like cumin and coriander with oregano and thyme. Combined with the magic ingredient...sumac!

This summer I foraged for wild staghorn sumac and have been using in my homemade spice blend along with garden grown thyme and oregano that have been dried.

Of course, you can make this blend without foraging or growing on your own by purchasing the spices and combing them. I tend to play with the ratios but this was how I combined them today:

INGREDIENTS:

2 TBSP sumac
2 TBSP sesame seeds
2 TBSP dried oregano
1 TSBP dried thyme
1 tsp whole cumin seed
1 tsp whole coriander seed
1 tsp Himalayan salt

INSTRUCTIONS:

First, combine the sesame seeds, cumin and coriander in a sauté pan. Heat over medium-low heat and toast until sesame seeds are lightly golden brown. Toasting them adds a depth of flavor to the spice blend. Place toasted sesame seeds, cumin and coriander into a bowl. Add sumac, oregano, thyme, and salt. Give it a stir and then use a funnel to get the blend into a spice jar for long term storage.

It goes wonderfully on roasted veggies or any type of meat.

Enjoy!