Equipment
* optional
Ingredients
Dry Mix
- 30 g dried wild thyme, dried
- 70 g raw white sesame seeds, raw
- 30 g ground sumac
- 5 g fine sea salt
- 5 ml extra virgin olive oil
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition is estimated per serving. Nutrients without complete source data are omitted.
Full nutrition
- Calories
- 615 kcal
- Protein
- 19 g
- Carbohydrates
- 50 g
- Fat
- 46 g
- Fiber
- 30 g
- Sugar
- 1 g
- Sodium
- 3224 mg
- Saturated Fat
- 6 g
- Monounsaturated Fat
- 17 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat
- 16 g
- Potassium
- 1444 mg
- Calcium
- 1621 mg
- Iron
- 60.8 mg
- Magnesium
- 312 mg
- Phosphorus
- 501 mg
- Zinc
- 7.3 mg
- Vitamin A
- 57 mcg
- Vitamin C
- 15 mg
- Vitamin E
- 3.1 mg
- Vitamin K
- 516 mcg
- Vitamin B6
- 0.7 mg
- Thiamin
- 0.70 mg
- Riboflavin
- 0.30 mg
- Niacin
- 4.6 mg
- Folate
- 150 mcg
- Water
- 6 g
Sources: Aggregated Public Data, USDA FoodData Central
Method
Place the raw sesame seeds in a dry heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Toast, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until they turn golden brown and become fragrant (approx. 3-5 minutes).
Remove sesame seeds from the hot pan immediately and spread them on a cool plate or tray. Allow to cool completely to room temperature. This is critical to prevent condensation in the jar.
If using wild thyme leaves that are very coarse or twiggy, lightly crush them in a mortar and pestle or rub them between your palms to break them down slightly. Do not grind into a fine powder; the texture should remain leafy.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled sesame seeds, dried thyme, sumac, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly until evenly distributed.
Transfer the mixture to a clean, dry airtight jar. Store in a cool, dark cupboard.
Chef's Notes
- Authenticity Tip: True Levantine Za'atar uses 'Origanum syriacum' (Bible Hyssop), which has a unique flavor profile distinct from common European thyme. If you can find it online or in Middle Eastern markets, it makes a significant difference.
- Sumac Quality: Look for sumac that is deep red or purple and slightly moist/oily. Bright pink sumac is often old or mixed with citric acid.
- Serving: The classic 'Za'atar wa Zeit' breakfast involves a small bowl of olive oil and a small bowl of this mix. Dip fresh bread in oil, then in the spice.
Storage
Refrigerator: 6 months — Optional. Extends freshness but must be kept perfectly dry.
Freezer: 1 year — Best for long-term storage of bulk batches.
Reheating: Use at room temperature.
Troubleshooting
Taste is bitter
Cause: Sesame seeds were burned during toasting
Fix: Cannot be fixed; discard and re-toast seeds
Prevention: Keep seeds moving constantly and remove from heat immediately once golden
Mixture is clumping
Cause: Sesame seeds were mixed while still warm, creating condensation
Fix: Spread mix on a tray and let air dry for 2 hours in a dry room
Prevention: Ensure seeds are fully cooled to room temperature before mixing
Cultural Context
In the Levant, Za'atar is more than a spice; it is a cultural pillar believed to boost brain power and immunity. It is a staple in Lebanese, Palestinian, Syrian, and Jordanian households.
