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Za'atar

Za'atar is a Middle Eastern term that refers both to a family of herbs and to a spice blend made from dried herbs, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Za'atar is a Middle Eastern term that refers both to a family of herbs and to a spice blend made from dried herbs, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. The blend is widely used across the Levant and other parts of the Middle East, with recipes that vary by region and household.

Definition

Za'atar is a term used in Middle Eastern contexts for both a wild herb and a seasoning blend. In culinary use, it usually refers to a mixed spice blend rather than a single ingredient.

Ingredients and regional variation

Common ingredients include dried thyme, oregano, or marjoram, together with sumac, toasted sesame seeds, and salt. The exact recipe varies across the Levant and is often closely associated with local and family traditions.

Culinary uses

Za'atar is used as a seasoning for flatbreads, vegetables, meats, dips, and olive oil mixtures. It is often sprinkled on food just before serving or mixed into oil as a dip for bread.

Taste and aroma

The blend is generally herbal and earthy from the dried herbs, tangy from sumac, and nutty from sesame seeds. Many descriptions also note a lemony or slightly acidic character.

Health and nutrition

Za'atar is often considered a flavourful alternative to heavier sauces or salt-based seasonings. Its nutritional profile depends on the recipe, especially the amount of sesame, salt, and added ingredients.

Key facts

  • Za'atar can mean both a plant and a prepared spice mix.
  • The spice blend commonly includes thyme, oregano, or marjoram, plus sumac and sesame seeds.
  • Regional recipes differ, and some versions include salt, dill, cumin, coriander, or orange zest.
  • It is commonly used on bread, vegetables, meats, dips, and as a table condiment.
  • Its flavour is usually described as savoury, herbal, tangy, and nutty.
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Canadian context

Za'atar is widely available in Canadian grocery stores, specialty spice shops, and Middle Eastern markets, and it is used in Canadian home cooking and restaurant menus.

Frequently asked questions

What is za'atar?
Za'atar is both a Middle Eastern herb name and a spice blend. The blend usually contains dried thyme or oregano, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt.
How to use za'atar?
Use it as a finishing seasoning on bread, labneh, hummus, roasted vegetables, chicken, fish, or potatoes. It is also commonly mixed with olive oil as a dip or spread.
What does za'atar taste like?
Za'atar tastes herbal, earthy, tangy, and nutty, with a slightly lemony or acidic note from sumac.
Is za'atar healthy?
Za'atar can be part of a balanced diet, especially when used in place of heavier seasonings. Its healthfulness depends on the recipe and on how much salt or sesame it contains.
Where to buy za'atar?
Za'atar is commonly sold in supermarkets, spice shops, Middle Eastern grocery stores, and online as a spice blend.
Za'atar recipe?
A simple version combines dried thyme or oregano, ground sumac, toasted sesame seeds, and salt. Recipes vary, but this four-ingredient mix is a common starting point.

References

  1. Bon Appétit — https://www.bonappetit.com/story/what-is-zaatar
    Supports: General definition, common ingredients, regional variation, and flavor description.
  2. Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/za'atar
    Supports: Dictionary definition of za'atar as a Middle Eastern spice blend.
  3. BBC Good Food — https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/glossary/zaatar-glossary
    Supports: Meaning of za'atar as both a herb and a spice mixture.
  4. Food Network — https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/packages/food-network-essentials/what-is-zaatar
    Supports: Common ingredients, regional variation, and traditional herb association.
  5. Institute of Culinary Education — https://www.ice.edu/blog/what-is-zaatar-seasoning
    Supports: Ingredient list, historical context, and a basic recipe.
  6. Cambridge Dictionary — https://www.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/za-atar
    Supports: Definition as herbs and as a mixture used in Middle Eastern cooking.