How To Make Homemade Za’atar Spice Mix
My Homemade Za’atar Spice Mix has bold flavors and is amazing on just about anything such as meat and seafood, french fries, cream cheese, avocado toast or even dips like baba ganoush and hummus. Za’atar seasoning is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s also super easy to make at home and if you are into making your own seasoning blend, then read on!

Why this recipe works
- Making your own spice blends helps you get creative in the kitchen and you become familiar with different flavors.
- All you need are dried herbs.
- Simple recipe offering a unique blend and is a great way to change up flavors in your cooking.
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What is za’atar seasoning made of
Cumin seeds, toasted sesame seeds, oregano, wild thyme, orange zest, dried marjoram, sumac, sea salt and black pepper. (just to name a few of what’s in za’atar spice). There are other variations of how to make this spice mixture so you don’t have to use these exact ingredients.
What is za’atar seasoning used for
Za’atar seasoning can be used for a lot of things such as:
- Roast chicken such as my Middle Eastern Spatchcock Chicken.
- Sprinkle some on top of pillowy homemade bread rolls.
- Za’atar salmon .
- Baked Za’atar Fries or on top of a buttery baked potato.
- Sprinkle it on top deviled eggs or on a greek yogurt dip.
- Salad dressings.
Ingredients for this za’atar spice blend

- Dried oregano.
- Ground sumac. Sumac has a lemony flavor and is used a lot in mediterranean cooking.
- Sesame seeds. Sesame seeds have a bit of a nutty flavor.
- Kosher salt.
- Dried thyme.
- Aleppo pepper. Aleppo has a mild spice flavor. It’s used in mediterrenean cuisine as well and also turkish and lebanese.
How to make a za’atar spice mix
1. In a small bowl, measure out the spices.
2. Combine gently with a whisk or a small spoon.
3. Store in an airtight container at room temperature and in a cool place.

Helpful tips
- The best part about making your own za’atar blend is that you can make it small batches when you need it. This recipe makes enough for about 1 pound of meat or seafood.
- When making any dry rub, make sure all your spices are fresh and not expired. Though spices don’t go bad necessarily, they do lose flavor therefore your dishes won’t be at their full potential.
- Wholes spices can be used. Grind them in a coffee grinder or any spice grinder.
- Toast your sesame seeds or whole cumin using a small pan. I don’t toast my sesame seeds for this za’atar recipe.
- Measure out the herbs and spices however you can be generous on any herb or spice you want more flavor of. It will make your own blends unique!
Where to buy za’atar seasoning
If you’re not up for making your own spice mixes just yet- you can always purchase za’atar seasoning. Any online store like Amazon will have it, a middle eastern market, or places like Trader Joe’s or World Market. Your local grocery store may carry it as well.
Recipe Inspo for za’atar spice mix
I love creating and playing with flavors of all the different spices. I also love za’atar for it’s unique flavor. I hope you enjoy this spice mix as much as I do!
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Homemade Za’atar Spice Mix
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Ingredients
- 2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sumac
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt plus more if needed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon aleppo pepper
Instructions
- Measure out all of the spices into a small bowl.
- Gently whisk together and store in an airtight container until ready to use.
Notes
Nutrition
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