Zaatar is a popular Middle Eastern spice blend that can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s a mix of herbs, spices, and sesame seeds that can be used to season everything from chicken to vegetables to dips. Making your own zaatar is easy and allows you to customize the blend to your own tastes. Here’s how to make zaatar at home.
Gather the Ingredients
To make zaatar, you’ll need a blend of herbs, spices, and sesame seeds. The most common herbs and spices used are thyme, oregano, and sumac. You can also add in other herbs like marjoram, cumin, and coriander. Sesame seeds are also a popular addition to zaatar. All of these ingredients can be found in most grocery stores or online.
Grind the Ingredients
Once you’ve gathered the ingredients, you’ll need to grind them into a fine powder. This can be done in a spice grinder or a food processor. For the best results, grind each ingredient separately and then combine them together. This will ensure that everything is evenly blended and the flavors are balanced.
Adjust the Ratio of Ingredients
Once the ingredients are ground, you can adjust the ratio of each one to create a blend that suits your own tastes. Start with a ratio of 1 part thyme, 1 part oregano, and ½ part sumac. You can then adjust the ratios to create a blend that’s more to your liking. If you like more of a cumin flavor, for example, you can add in more cumin. Or if you want the blend to be more subtle, you can reduce the amount of sesame seeds.
Mix the Ingredients
Once you’ve adjusted the ratios of the ingredients, you can mix them together in a bowl or a jar. Make sure to mix them well so that everything is evenly distributed. If you’re using a jar, you can use a spoon or a whisk to mix the ingredients together.
Add Salt and Oil
The final step in making zaatar is to add in a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of olive oil. The salt will help to bring out the flavor of the herbs and spices, while the olive oil will help to bind the ingredients together. You can adjust the amount of salt and oil to suit your own taste.
Store the Zaatar
Once the zaatar is blended, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It will keep for up to six months. You can also freeze the zaatar for longer storage.
Uses for Zaatar
Zaatar can be used to season a variety of dishes, from grilled meats and vegetables to hummus and dips. You can sprinkle it on top of food before cooking, or mix it with oil or yogurt to create a marinade or dip. You can also add it to salads, stews, and soups for an extra flavor boost.
Conclusion
Making your own zaatar is easy and allows you to customize the blend to your own tastes. All you need is a blend of herbs, spices, and sesame seeds, which can all be found in most grocery stores or online. Once you’ve gathered the ingredients, grind them into a powder, adjust the ratios, mix them together, and add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of olive oil. Store the zaatar in an airtight container in a cool, dark place and enjoy it on a variety of dishes. Bon appetit!