My za’atar recipe is simple, comes together with just a few ingredients, and adds earthy, tangy, nutty flavor to everything from roasted vegetables to bread dipped in olive oil. 

With its growing popularity, many people who encounter za’atar for the first time wonder: What is it? How does it taste? And how do I use it? This Middle Eastern spice blend has been cherished for centuries and is so beloved by the Lebanese. Today it’s becoming a pantry essential around the world.

What is za’atar?

Za’atar (pronounced ZAH-tar, with a soft a) is an ancient Levantine spice blend made with dried herbs, ground sumac, and sesame seeds. The Arabic word za’atar means “thyme,” which is an essential ingredient, though blends can also include oregano, marjoram, or a mix of herbs.

Like many Mediterranean spice blends, za’atar varies by region and family tradition, with each blend carrying its own flavor balance.

What does za’atar taste like?

Za’atar’s flavor is bold, complex, and layered:

• Wild thyme (or Syrian oregano): Wild thyme (origanum syriacum) gives authentic za’atar its distinctive taste, different from common thyme found outside Lebanon. Because wild thyme is rarely available abroad, homemade za’atar made with standard thyme will taste delicious but slightly different from the traditional Lebanese blend.
• Sumac: Tangy, tart, citrus-like brightness, this is a defining ingredient. Made from the berry of the wild sumac flower, this vibrant red powder adds a lemony, tangy note that balances the richness of herbs and sesame. It’s been used in Middle Eastern cooking since ancient times and brings both flavor and color to the blend. 
• Toasted sesame seeds: Nutty and rich,  you can often find toasted sesame seeds at grocery stores, but I much prefer to make my own for freshness of flavor.

Za’atar Recipe (Homemade Blend)

While nothing compares to Lebanese za’atar made with wild thyme, you can create homemade za’atar recipe with herbs and spices you already have.

Ingredients

• Dried thyme – You can also substitute a blend of thyme, oregano, and marjoram.
• Ground sumac
• Toasted Sesame Seeds
• Fine Sea Salt

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt.
2. Mix well until evenly combined.
3. Store in an airtight jar at room temperature.

Storage: Homemade za’atar will keep for three to six months in a cool, dark place.

How to use za’atar

Za’atar is incredibly versatile and can be used in countless ways:

• Seasoning: Sprinkle over fried eggs, avocado toast, roasted potatoes, French fries, or vegetables, like my za’atar roasted carrots. 
• Salad Dressings: Add to vinaigrettes or yogurt-based dressings for extra flavor.
• Marinades: Perfect with chicken, lamb, or fish (try my Za’atar Chicken recipe).
• Dips: Mix into hummus, baba ganoush, or labneh dip.
• Bread: Combine with olive oil for dipping, or spread onto flatbread (man’oushe) before baking.

One of the simplest and most traditional Lebanese ways to enjoy this spice is za’atar paste, which is a mixture of za’atar and olive oil spread onto warm pita bread. 

Where to Buy Za’atar

Za’atar is now widely available in many grocery store spice sections, but quality varies. Look for authentic Lebanese za’atar for the best flavor. My personal favorite is my Lebanese green za’atar from Lebanon. 

FAQs

What is a substitute for za’atar?

There’s no exact substitute, but you can combine dried thyme or marjoram with a squeeze of lemon juice for a similar taste.

What do we call za’atar in English?

The Arabic word za’atar translates to “thyme,” but in English it typically refers to the full spice blend.

Is za’atar healthy?

Yes! Za’atar contains herbs rich in antioxidants, sesame seeds with healthy fats, and sumac, which is high in vitamin C and plant compounds.

More Ingredient Guides

Cinnamon

Cardamom

Sumac

Anise