Learn all about za’atar and more with our answers to all your most commonly asked questions.
How is za’atar pronounced?
It is pronounced zah-tar.
What is za’atar?
Za’atar is an herb from the Lamiaceae plant family, Origanum syriacum, among other names. Native to the Levantine region, it has a distinctively sharp thyme-like flavor. It is also cultivated in other Mediterranean climates, though the resulting product may not be the same due to differences in terroir. The herb can be found under the names hyssop, Syrian oregano, wild thyme, and thymbra spicata, though za’atar differs in look, shape, and taste from other oregano plants.
The herb is used in the blend of the same name, which is also known as zoubaeh, a commonly used mix in Levantine and Middle Eastern cuisine. Traditional Lebanese za’atar is made with sundried za’atar herb, salt, sumac, and toasted sesame seeds: a staple of the Middle Eastern pantry, it is used to add bright flavor and freshness to a range of foods.
How is Terranean Herbs & Spices’ za’atar different?
Our za’atar is incredibly high-quality, sourced from specially chosen farms in Lebanon for delicious taste and exceptional health benefits. We use no preservatives or emulsifiers and our products are vegan, gluten-free, and suitable for those on keto and paleo diets. As a small business based in Cleveland, our female-owned and operated team hand produce, package, and distribute our products to meet the highest quality standards! You will never find us selling something we wouldn’t feed to our own families.
How is za’atar used?
Za’atar may be one of the most versatile condiments and spices in your kitchen! As a multipurpose blend, its flavor is tangy, earthy, and savory, making it a welcome addition to wherever you need a burst of flavor. The most popular use is to mix it with extra virgin olive oil and use it as a topping on traditional Middle Eastern baked bread, man’oushe (pronounced man-ou-sheh).
Za’atar is wonderful when added to dips like hummus and baba gannouj, as a flavoring agent for chickpeas, salad dressings, and eggs, and as a way to season roasted and
