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Za'atar is a mixture of spices originating in the Middle East. Za'atar refers to any of various local herbs of the mint family, including marjoram, oregano and thyme. Alternate spellings include zaatar, zatar, zattar or zahatar.
Green za'atar mixture is traditionally composed of dried thyme (Thymus vulgaris), toasted white sesame seeds, and salt. Some sources also include savory, hyssop, oregano, cumin, and fennel seed. Red za'atar is made with dried thyme with sumac.
It is popular in Turkey, Morocco, Libya, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Israel and North Africa and the Armenian diaspora. Za'atar is frequently sprinkled on hummus or served with olive oil as a spread.
Za'atar is used to spice meats and vegetables, and is mixed with olive oil to make a spread which is used as a dip for sesame rings. Za'atar can also be spread on a dough base for the Middle-Eastern equivalent of a miniature pizza. It can be sprinkled on labneh (yogurt that has been drained until it becomes a tangy, creamy cheese). It can also be preserved in oil, by mixing with salt and rolling into balls or by drying in the sun.
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