We are fans of cumin and coriander in this house and will find any excuse to cook with them. These spices are incredibly versatile, which is one of the reasons why they are used in regional dishes across the globe. One of our favorite spice blends featuring this dynamic duo is za’atar, a Middle Eastern spice mixture with complex layers of flavor that seasons both vegetables and proteins perfectly. Our Homemade Za’atar Spice Mix can be used as a marinade or rub to complement meat, poultry, and even tofu. It’s the star of the show on roasted chickpeas, and it brings grilled and roasted vegetables to life.
Za’atar Spice Mix traditionally contains ground Aleppo pepper, made from Middle Eastern halaby chiles. Aleppo can be challenging (and expensive) to source, but a 2:1 combination of sweet paprika and cayenne is a close approximation. For even more amazing flavor, we start with cumin and coriander seeds and lightly toast each in a dry pan until fragrant, then cool, grind, and measure for the recipe. For special occasions (or the discerning palate), it’s worth the effort and only take a few minutes. This recipe makes about five tablespoons of Homemade Za’atar Spice Mix.
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Homemade Za’atar Spice Mix
Homemade Za’atar Spice Mix
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 5 TBSP 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp ground sumac
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Pinch ground black pepper
- Generous pinch Aleppo chili powder, or pinch cayenne pepper plus scant 1/16 tsp paprika (sweet, not smoked)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a small, airtight glass container and shake to combine.
- Store in an airtight glass spice jar up to six months.
- Omit salt if you are controlling sodium and/or prefer to salt food separately.
Notes
Add 5 minutes cook time if toasting cumin and coriander.
- Prep Time: 5
- Category: Spices, Seasoning, Marinade
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
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