Za`Atar Spice Blend

Za'atar (zaatar) is a mixture of sumac, sesame seed and herbs frequently used in the Middle East and Mediterranean areas.

Za'atar is the Arabic name for an herb blend that is popular in Israeli cooking. Traditionally, the blend was made from a plant by the same name, but today most Za'atar blends are made from herbs like oregano, marjoram, and not  any of the "real" Za'atar herb

Za`Atar Flatbread

Current uses of what we now call Za'atar are mostly culinary. The seasoning mixture is comprised of dried herbs, toasted sesame seeds, ground sumac, and salt. Sumac is another Middle Eastern flavoring, characterized by its deep red berries and often sold dried and ground into a coarse powder with a tart, cranberry like flavor.
You can find a Za'atar blend at most Middle Eastern grocery stores or you can make it from scratch.

Za`atar Pizza on the left. Make a paste with Za`atar and Olive oil and spread on your already made flatbread and top with feta  cheese and place  in the oven at 350 degrees for about 10 min. and serve with hummus  and Israeli Salad

Ingredients :

• 1/4 cup sumac
• 2 tablespoons thyme
• 1 tablespoon roasted sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons marjoram
• 2 tablespoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt   

Preparation:

Grind the sesame seeds in food processor or with mortar and pestle. Add remaining ingredients and mix well.

Store za'atar in a cool, dark place in a plastic zip bag or in an airtight container. When stored properly, Za'atar can be used from 3-6 months.

The Spice Agent

Recently on a trip to Branson and browsing  the shops of Historic Downtown Branson, Mo. My daughter and I stumbled upon a shop called the spice agent, I was needing a Middle Eastern spice called Sumac and I thought no they probably  dont have such a item, but decided to go in anyway, wow was I ever wrong the Owner Chris has a whole line of Middle Eastern spices  and tons of other  unique hard to find spices.

                 Owner of the Spice Agent Chris Poulos                                                                                                                                                                                                       

           The Spice Agent delivers fresh spices, specialty blends, dried goods, gourmet salts, and more. Check out our page for great cooking tips and ideas!
Order online also  www.TheSpiceAgent.com


The Spice Agent offers goods for sale at its retail location in Historic Downtown Branson, MO and online. The goal: offer the freshest collection by buying spices in whole form and grinding on site. It is our mission to help cooks understand the importance of keeping spices stored properly and maintaining a fresh collection in the kitchen. Fresh spice makes all the difference!

These are a few of the spices  I picked up. The Sumac and  the Baharat are some of the most fragrant  you will find. I bought the powdered Horseradish because I had never  tried the powdered before, I mixed a couple of tablespoons of mayo and a pinch of the Horseradish, mixed and put on a Roast Beef sandwch , yum! The flavor was mild and  I didnt miss the heat Im used to  from most Horseradish.   The Hickory powder, I used a pinch of it  in a pot of chili, the best Chili I have ever ate. It reminded me of when you go camping  and the food has a  slight smoky flavor and is always delish.