February 21, 2023

Palestinian Za’atar Recipe | Traditional Palestinian Foods

A staple in every single Palestinian cupboard, Za’atar is the one thing you should not overlook in your next cooking adventure. With its combination of herbs, sumac, cumin, and salt, this famous and earthy spice blend has enhanced so many dishes and added flavor to countless meals for centuries.

This spice blend has a long history in the region, with unique variations of za’atar found in different places around the Levant. Because of this, it’s an exciting and distinct additive that can make almost any dish irresistible.

Za’atar’s plethora of uses are another reason for its fame! It can be used in many meals, like roasted chicken, salads, salmon, potatoes, flatbreads, and much more. It was even thought to have medicinal purposes since the 12^th century, with its herbal properties being used to help with concentration, skin problems, and indigestion.

Today, we want to share with you the makeup of Palestinian blend za’atar and how you can utilize it in your cooking! This spice blend is an intricate mixture of wild thyme, sesame seeds, sumac and salt. Sometimes people add cumin, all spice, and even some wheat. Did you know that wild thyme is regularly harvested in the West Bank for its high quality, so it’s particularly special!

This blend also pairs wonderfully with olive oil to create a mixture that can be used as a topping for a number of things. In fact this is what you'll find most Palestinian kitchen's have on their shelf or counter...a ceramic dish with olive oil and za'atar!

Our ceramic dishes make a wonderful addition to your table when you enjoy this combination.

Just imagine your favorite meal enhanced by this wonderful spice! To spice up your next meal, try out this roasted chicken recipe.

To get started, you’ll need:

4 chicken thighs
1/2 lemon, juiced
3 garlic cloves, crushed
3 tbsp za’atar blend
3 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, crushed garlic cloves, za’atar blend, salt, pepper, and chicken thighs. Rub the mixture into the chicken.
Place the chicken into an oven-safe dish and cook for 45 minutes.
Serve and enjoy with rice or your favorite side dish!

If you’re keen to try out this tasty spice, find Palestinian blend za’atar in our Ramadan gift box!