Za’atar (zaatar, zahtar) is the Arabic word for thyme, or for a spice mixture, in which the major ingredient is thyme. Za’atar is a very popular Arabic spice used for cooking and eating with meats, veggies, rice, and breads. Za’atar also can be used as a home remedies to treat stomach problems, cough, fever, sore throat and other disorders. Za’atar is popular in Middle East, including Armenia, Iran, Egypt, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, the Palestinian territories, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, and Turkey.
How to make Za’atar? It is easy. The below is a recipe:
Ingredients:
– Thyme 2 tablespoons
– Oregano 2 tablespoons
– Marjoram 2 tablespoons
– Sumac 4 tablespoons
– Sesame seeds (roasted) 1 tablespoon
– Salt 1 teaspoon
Preparation:
– Make all the above ingredients into a powder and mix well
– Store it in a airtight bottle or jar
To treat or prevent digestive problems, cough or sore throat, you can eat zaatar on bread. Or you can use it to make a tea:
– Boil 1 teaspoon of za’atar in a cup of water for 1 minute
– Add 2 teaspoons of honey
– Drink it
Please note, za’atar is generally prepared by using ground dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, mixed with toasted sesame seeds, and salt. But there are many different recipes of za’atar. Other spices, such as savory, cumin, coriander or fennel seed, caraway seeds, etc., might be added to it.
For more information about Arabic remedies, go to Natural Remedies Center: http://www.naturalremediescenter.com/category/arabic-remedies/
