iSpice Zaatar Seasoning recipes

Za'atar Seasoning, a beloved Middle Eastern blend, consists of dried herbs like thyme, oregano, and marjoram, mixed with sesame seeds, sumac, and often salt. This aromatic and tangy seasoning is versatile, used to enhance the flavor of meats, vegetables, and breads, and is a staple in many culinary traditions across the Middle East.

Here are 5 simple recipes that showcase the magic of Za'atar Seasoning:

1. Za'atar Roasted Chicken:

   • Ingredients:
     • 4 chicken thighs or breasts
     • 2 tablespoons olive oil
     • 2 tablespoons Za'atar Seasoning
     • Salt to taste
   • Instructions:
     • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
     • Rub the chicken with olive oil and Za'atar Seasoning, and season with salt.
     • Place in a roasting pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
     • Serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

2. Za'atar and Lemon Hummus:

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
     • 2 cloves garlic, minced
     • 2 tablespoons tahini
     • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
     • 2 tablespoons olive oil
     • 1 tablespoon Za'atar Seasoning
     • Salt and water as needed
   • Instructions:
     • In a food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil.
     • Process until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
     • Season with Za'atar and salt, blend again.
     • Serve drizzled with additional olive oil and a sprinkle of Za'atar.

3. Za'atar Spiced Pita Chips:

   • Ingredients:
     • 4 pita breads, split into rounds
     • 1/4 cup olive oil
     • 2 tablespoons Za'atar Seasoning
   • Instructions:
     • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
     • Brush pita rounds with olive oil and sprinkle with Za'atar Seasoning.
     • Cut into triangles and spread on a baking sheet.
     • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
     • Serve with dips like hummus or labneh.

4. Za'atar Grilled Vegetables:

   • Ingredients:
     • Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, sliced)
     • Olive oil
     • Za'atar Seasoning
     • Salt to taste
   • Instructions:
     • Preheat the grill to medium-high.
     • Brush the vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle generously with Za'atar and salt.
     • Grill until charred and tender, turning occasionally.
     • Serve as a side or incorporate into salads or wraps.

5. Za'atar and Olive Focaccia:

   • Ingredients:
     • 1 pound pizza dough
     • 1/4 cup olive oil
     • 1/4 cup mixed olives, chopped
     • 2 tablespoons Za'atar Seasoning
   • Instructions:
     • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
     • Stretch the pizza dough into a lightly oiled baking sheet.
     • Dimple the dough with your fingertips and brush with olive oil.
     • Sprinkle with Za'atar and scatter olives over the top.
     • Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffed.
     • Serve warm, cut into squares.

These recipes highlight how Za'atar Seasoning can bring a unique and delicious twist to both traditional and innovative dishes, infusing them with the flavors of the Middle East. Enjoy exploring these recipes and adding a touch of Za'atar to your cooking!