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Za'atar Spice Blend

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This authentic za’atar spice blend is a versatile staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a fragrant balance of earthy herbs, nutty sesame and tangy sumac. Making your own version at home ensures a far superior flavour to shop-bought alternatives, allowing the citrusy notes of the sumac to shine through. Whether you use fresh oregano dried in the microwave or high-quality dried herbs, this savoury mixture provides an instant lift to a variety of dishes.

As a naturally vegan cupboard essential, this herb mix is incredibly multipurpose. Traditionally, it is served with olive oil and warm flatbreads for dipping, but it also works beautifully as a rub for roasted vegetables or sprinkled over creamy labneh and hummus. Prepare a batch to keep in your pantry for a quick way to add complexity and depth to your everyday cooking.

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Ingredients for Za'atar Spice Blend

  • 1 cup picked fresh za’atar or oregano leaves (or 6 tablespoons dried oregano)

  • 3 tablespoons dried marjoram

  • 3 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

  • 4 teaspoons dried thyme

  • 1 tablespoon ground sumac

  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt

How to make Za'atar Spice Blend

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If using fresh za’atar or oregano, arrange it on a towel-lined plate and microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between intervals, until dry and crumbly, 2 to 2 1/2 minutes.

Crumble the leaves by hand or in a spice grinder until almost fine (the way dried herbs look), then combine in a medium bowl with the marjoram, sesame seeds, thyme, sumac, and salt. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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