Discover – Za’atar

Apr 25, 2023 by Chef David

By Chef David

Za’atar is an aromatic herb-spice mixture, commonly associated with Mediterranean cuisine. It is a combination of hyssop (Syrian oregano), thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. Packed with antioxidants that boost the immune system, fight inflammation and the phenol in oregano and thyme has been linked to improved energy and better brain function. Studies suggest za’atar can even reduce the risk of depression. The use of za’atar as a health food, dates to the 12 Century, and was used by Maimonides for his patients making za’atar more than another great garnish.

Za’atar adds an earthy flavor, and fragrance, adding a taste profile commonly associated with Middle East cuisine, its healthful properties are an added benefit.

Breaking Down Za’atar

Let’s look at each of the ingredients in za’atar.

Hyssop belongs to the mint family and is also known as Syrian oregano. It has a robust mild peppery-grassy flavor. It provides Vitamin C and fiber. Its leaves contain essential oils with disinfectant and antiseptic properties. Hyssop has been used for digestion problems, respiratory tract disorders, joint pain, muscle pain, and toothaches.

Thyme is an herb in the same family as oregano, basil, and mint. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties (It is even an insect-repellant). Thyme contains Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin B-6, iron, calcium, magnesium, and manganese. These all help boost the immune system and prevent colds. The essential oils in thyme can help to alleviate coughs, especially when brewed for tea. Thyme is used in many dishes, with an earthy, minty, slightly lemony flavor.

Thyme has a distinguished past, used by the Ancient Egyptians in the embalming fluid while Romans considered it a cure people for shyness and gave it to their army. Hippocrates recommended thyme for respiratory diseases.

Sumac comes from the red berries of a flowering shrub known as Rhus Coriaria. It contains oleic acid associated with heart health, omega-3 fatty acids, and linoleic acid, which has been associated with skin health. It is rich in antioxidant compounds tannins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids which reduce inflammation. Sumac has a rich red color, a citrus-like fragrance, and a tart flavor.

Sesame seeds are rich in magnesium and a good source of fiber and protein. These tiny, oil-rich seeds grow in pods on the Sesamum indicum plant. They contain two types of plant compounds — lignans and phytosterols — that may lower cholesterol. The magnesium, manganese, calcium, and zinc in sesame seeds are good for bone health, as well as a good source of thiamine (B1) and niacin (B3), vitamin E, iron, selenium, and copper.

Sesame seeds may be the oldest oilseed crop. Like the other ingredients in za’atar, they were used in ancient medicine.

The nutty flavor from sesame seeds combines with the woodsy flavors of sumac, thyme, and hyssop, giving recipes a taste of the Mediterranean. For people unfamiliar with za’atar we included a simple recipe below. But it can be simple Za’atar is best enjoyed added to oil for dipping fresh bread or sprinkled on hummus.

Spice It Up

We tasted The Spice Way za’atar.  They sell four different varieties of za’atar – Real Zaatar, Traditional Lebanese Zaatar, Garlic Zaatar, and Jaffa Zaatar (which includes chickpeas, cumin, and coriander). We tried the Real Za’atar, their traditional blend made of hyssop, sumac, and sesame seeds, and found it exceptional, fresh, flavorful, and authentic.

The Spice Way packaging is non-traditional. They use a light resealable plastic with a clear bottom providing an easy way to gauge the remaining spice. It is attractive and effective for keeping spices fresh. Unlike spice jars, these light flat spice bags stack easily, travel well, and are environmentally friendly.

Using small batch production, The Spice Way keeps their products farm-to-table fresh.  They pride themselves on using ingredients grown and dried traditionally, without the use of anti-caking agents, preservatives, irradiation, or fillers.  The Spice Way’s motto ‘nature with benefits’ emphasizes their attention to maintaining the health benefits of their products. We were impressed by their extensive collection of spices, herbs, spice blends, infusions, and teas.

The Spice Way is certified by the OK and can be ordered online.

Sip It

Zaatarius transforms za’atar into a herbal tea positioned as a detox. We found Zaatarius to be an enjoyable non-traditional tea with an earthy flavor.  This high-quality herbal tea blend comes in a resealable plastic pouch, with nine quality flow-through tea bags.

Zaatarius lists the mythical properties of za’atar, removing the fear of the evil eye, raising your luck, and causing the person who carries it to be liked by others.

Their za’atar tea comes in a variety of flavors. We tasted the Lemonolina and Cinnamolina and found both to be a delightful way to end a meal, with the added benefit of aiding in digestion. The Cinnemolina was our favorite, finding the za’atar cinnamon flavor a refreshing and novel combination.

Zaatarius’ mission is to “connect humanity through natural beverages. By combining tradition and innovation to create a healthier, happier, and better world by bringing the best from bush to cup.”

From a culinary standpoint, they make a good cup of tea, breaking the traditional flavor spectrum for tea, which spans from sweet to savory, and adding a rustic musky palate. Zaatarius is a nice after-meal palate cleanse or a relaxing afternoon beverage.

Zaatarius is certified by the OU and can be purchased online.

Eating Healthier

Eating healthier should always be so easy. Harnessing the richness of za’atar with its ancient legendary properties adds health benefits while adding a Mediterranean taste profile to traditional recipes. Zaatarius provides a departure from the typical flowery herbal teas and green teas. Eat, drink, and enjoy za’atar.

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Za’atar Spiced-Zucchini Recipe (adapted from the New York Times)

Ingredients:

• Zucchini
• Za’atar – The Spice Way
• Oil (optional)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Heat a grill or frying pan.
2. Cut zucchini into ½-inch thick slices.
3. Cover with za’atar (optional: use oil to make a paste and add salt or pepper or coat zucchini was oil before coating)
4. Turn and cook until nicely browned and tender (approximately 8 minutes)