Za'atar Recipe: A Delicious Middle Eastern Spice Blend
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Za'atar Spice, a Middle Eastern Seasoning Eat the Heat from www.eat-the-heat.com
Introduction
Za'atar is a popular Middle Eastern spice blend that adds a unique flavor to your dishes. It is a combination of dried herbs, sesame seeds, and sumac, which are ground together to create a versatile seasoning mix. Za'atar has a tangy, nutty, and slightly sour taste, making it perfect for a wide range of dishes. This spice blend is not only delicious but also has numerous health benefits. In this article, we will discuss the ingredients, instructions, and nutrition of za'atar.
Ingredients
To make za'atar, you will need the following ingredients:
1/4 cup dried thyme
1/4 cup dried oregano
1/4 cup sesame seeds
2 tablespoons sumac
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Dried Thyme
Thyme is a herb that is commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. It has a strong, earthy flavor and is often added to meat dishes, stews, and soups. Dried thyme is used in za'atar as it has a longer shelf life than fresh thyme.
Dried Oregano
Oregano is another herb that is widely used in Mediterranean cuisine. It has a slightly bitter and pungent taste and is commonly used in tomato-based dishes, pizzas, and meat marinades. Dried oregano is used in za'atar as it has a more concentrated flavor than fresh oregano.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are tiny, nutty-flavored seeds that are commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. They are often sprinkled on bread or used as a garnish on salads. Sesame seeds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
Sumac
Sumac is a reddish-purple spice that is made from dried berries. It has a tangy and slightly sour taste and is often used in Middle Eastern cuisine. Sumac is high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Salt (Optional)
Salt is optional in za'atar, but it can enhance the flavor of the spice blend. You can use any kind of salt you prefer, but we recommend using Himalayan pink salt as it is unrefined and contains trace minerals.
Instructions
To make za'atar, follow these instructions:
Place the dried thyme and oregano in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast the herbs for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the herbs cool for a few minutes.
Place the toasted herbs, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt (if using) in a spice grinder or food processor.
Pulse the mixture until it is finely ground and well combined.
Transfer the za'atar to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place.
Nutrition
Za'atar is a low-calorie spice blend that is packed with nutrients. Here is the nutrition information for 1 tablespoon (9 grams) of za'atar:
Calories: 30
Protein: 1 g
Fat: 2 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 100 mg
Vitamin A: 2% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 2% of the DV
Iron: 6% of the DV
Calcium: 8% of the DV
Low in Calories
Za'atar is a low-calorie seasoning with only 30 calories per tablespoon. It is a great way to add flavor to your dishes without adding extra calories.
Rich in Nutrients
Za'atar is a good source of several essential nutrients, including iron, calcium, and vitamin A. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy bones, skin, and immune system.
High in Antioxidants
Za'atar is high in antioxidants, which are compounds that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.
Conclusion
Za'atar is a delicious and versatile spice blend that adds a unique flavor to your dishes. It is easy to make at home and has numerous health benefits. Use za'atar to season meats, vegetables, bread, or as a dip for olive oil. Experiment with different recipes and enjoy the delicious taste of za'atar!
