Print This Page

Zahtar - The Nutty, Flavour-Packed
Seasoning Enjoyed in Middle East Cusine

Zahtar is a classic Middle Eastern blend of toasted sesame seeds and spices and herbs. It is very versatile and is often used as a general seasoning or infused in olive oil for use as a spread or dip for bread. (See the bottom of the page for other recipes)

What You'll Need: (makes about 7-8 tablespoons)

5 tbsp sesame seeds
3 tbsp ground sumac
2 tbsp dried thyme
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp coriander seeds
2 tsp dill tips
2 tsp salt (see note below)

tbsp = tablespoon
tsp = teaspoon

Directions:

• In a dry pan over a low to medium heat, dry toast, whilst stirring, the coriander and sesame seeds for a few minutes. When you can smell the aromas and they start to darken slightly, they're ready

• Once toasted, take the pan off the heat, add the seeds to a bowl and allow to cool

• When cooled, add to your grinder and grind them with the salt and dill tips

• Add to a bowl and stir in the sumac

• Finally, crumble in the dried thyme and oregano and combine well
  
  

Store out of direct sunlight in a sealed jar. Use within 3 months.

If you've never dry toasted and ground ingredients before, it really is a simple thing to do. The heat releases fabulous flavours and amazing aromas. 

Click here for step-by-step tips on how to do it. (Link opens in new window)

Salt Note: I recommend a quality rock/sea/kosher salt as they're a bit less processed and therefore healthier. However you can happily use regular table salt if that's all you have available.

Middle Eastern Zahtar

Naming Note: This mix has many spellings: za'atar, zaatar, za'tar, zatar and zahatar to name just a few. Confusingly the many variations of the name also refer to a family of herbs which include thyme, oregano and savory. 

Here's a short video of how I made this recipe...

After Making Your Zahtar Recipe You May Like to Try...

Sambar Powder - The 
Classic Mix From India

Japanese Gomashio - 
Made With Sea Salt 
and Sesame Seeds

A Collection of BBQ Rubs
For the Grilling Fans

Return to Spice Mixes

Return to Home

ShareFacebookTwitterPinterestTumblrRedditWhatsAppMessenger