Homemade Za’atar Seasoning

February 18, 2022 at 10:00AM

Our Take on Za’atar Seasoning

We absolutely love this za’atar seasoning! With its perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and rich flavors, it’s a must-have in any kitchen. Today, we’re sharing everything you need to know: the 11 simple ingredients required, a quick and easy method to whip up a batch, and our favorite spice containers to store your homemade za’atar seasoning.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love Homemade Spice Blends

Salt Control: Creating your own spice blends allows you to control the amount of salt. Store-bought blends often contain a lot of sodium and even fillers, but when you make your own, you can adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Customizable Heat: Another benefit is the ability to customize the spice level and sweetness. This flexibility lets you tailor the blend exactly to your taste, making it uniquely yours.

Convenient Make-Ahead Option: Once you discover a mix that you enjoy, you can easily make double or triple batches. This way, you’ll always have your favorite seasoning on hand for future use.

Ingredients for Za’atar Seasoning

To see the full recipe, including exact measurements for each ingredient, scroll down to the recipe card. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

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Fennel seeds
Cumin seeds
Coriander seeds
Dried thyme
Oregano
Marjoram
Ground sumac
Kosher salt
Granulated garlic
Brown sugar
White sesame seeds

Recommended Spice Containers
a Mason jar on a white background.
Ball
Mason Jars
Mason jar
Amazon
4 Oz. Mini Mason Jars
Weck
Weck
10 oz. Canning Jar
jars
Crate and Barrel
Mini Oval Spice Jar
How to Make Za’atar Seasoning Step by Step

For the full recipe, scroll down to the recipe card for a list of ingredients and instructions.

Crush the Seeds: Start by placing the fennel seeds, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds in a mortar and pestle. Grind them until they are fragrant and the seeds are no longer whole.

Gently Combine the Spices: Next, add the thyme, oregano, marjoram, sumac, kosher salt, garlic, and brown sugar to the mortar. Gently mix the ingredients together until well combined.

Incorporate Sesame Seeds: Now, toss the sesame seeds with the rest of the spices. Be sure not to grind the sesame seeds with the pestle; they should remain whole to retain their texture.

Store the Za’atar Seasoning: Finally, transfer your freshly made za’atar seasoning to a jar with a secure lid. Store it in a cool, dry place to maintain its flavor and freshness.

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za’atar seasoning ingredients in a mortar and pestle
stack of oat cups.

Top Tips for Za’atar Seasoning

Don’t have a mortar and pestle? If you do not have a mortar and pestle, try using a coffee grinder to crush the seeds. Just be sure to rinse the coffee out of the grinder first.

Make it more savory: Add an additional 1 teaspoon of sumac, and 1/2 teaspoon of granulated garlic.

Make it more sweet: Increase the brown sugar from 2 teaspoons to a tablespoon.
spice jars.
Glass
Spice Jars

Organize your homemade spices with this empty glass spice jar set!
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How to Use Za’atar Seasoning

Za’atar seasoning is a very versatile spice blend! We love using it in:

Meat and seafood
Roasted vegetables
Eggs
Salad dressings
Dips
More!

One-Pot Za’atar Meatballs and Quinoa
try it!
One Pot Za’atar Meatballs and Couscous

Use this za’atar seasoning with our amazing one pot za’atar meatballs and couscous skillet.
Make Recipe
ingredients for za’atar seasoning in a mortar and pestle
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Storage

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Store this za’atar seasoning in a sealed container in a cool dark place. It will last for up to 6 months.
ingredients for za’atar seasoning on a plate

More of our Favorite…
Spice Blend Recipes

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Everything Bagel Seasoning
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za’atar seasoning
5 from 2 votes
Za’atar Seasoning Recipe
This za’atar seasoning is great served over roasted vegetables, used as a dry rub for meat, or sprinkled over eggs.
Prep:5 minutes minutes
Cook:0 minutes minutes
Total:5 minutes minutes
Fat 2
Carbs 4
Protein 1
Yield: 24
Print Pin Rate
Ingredients

1 tablespoon fennel seeds, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, dried thyme EACH
½ tablespoon oregano
2 teaspoons marjoram
1 tablespoon ground sumac
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon granulated garlic
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon white sesame seeds

Instructions

Grind the Seeds: Place the fennel seeds, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds in a mortar and pestle. Grind until they are fragrant and the seeds are no longer whole.
Combine the Spices: Add the thyme, oregano, marjoram, sumac, kosher salt, garlic, and brown sugar to the mortar. Gently mix until well combined.
Incorporate the Sesame Seeds: Finally, toss the sesame seeds with the rest of the spices. Avoid grinding the sesame seeds; they should remain whole.
Store the Seasoning: Transfer the za’atar seasoning to a jar with a lid. Store in a cool, dry place to preserve freshness.

Tips & Notes

If you do not have a mortar and pestle, try using a coffee grinder to grind the seeds. Just be sure to rinse the coffee out of the grinder first.

Nutrition facts
Calories: 36kcal Carbohydrates: 4g Protein: 1g Fat: 2g Fiber: 1g Sugar: 1g
Author: Emily Richter
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