Za'atar

Za’atar (Arabic: زَعْتَر), the spice blend is a mixture of dried za’atar leaves (the hyssop of the Bible, also known as Syrian marjoram, and for us in the western hemisphere, thyme) together with a combination of other ingredients: sesame seeds, sumac and sea salt.

Za’atar is a very popular spice in the local kitchen. It is used as a seasoning for pizza, pastas, meats and vegetables, and can also be sprinkled on humus or labaneh (yogurt drained to make a tangy creamy cheese), or mixed with olive oil and eaten with pita bread.

For more information on how to use za’atar, check out this excellent Serious Eats article.