Prepare a Mediterranean Spice Blend and Use It Throughout
I first tasted za’atar, a Mediterranean spice blend with thyme, sumac and sesame seeds, in Israel and it was a revelation. This zesty condiment powder went well with just about everything – from roasted lamb to yogurt – and I don’t know why it never crossed my mind to just make my own.
According to America Test Kitchen’s new Complete Mediterranean Cookbook , you can make your own batch of za’atar by mixing 1/2 cup ground thyme, 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, and 1 1/2 tablespoons ground sumac . Once you’ve got it all mixed up, watch the video above to see how to use it. I like to mix it with good olive oil for dipping, but I’m also a big fan of sprinkling it on fried carrots or my morning bagel (with cream cheese, yes).
How to make Zaatar | America’s Test Kitchen