Za'atar is a very popular Middle Eastern spice blend, in restaurants served as a tabletop condiment or as a dip mixed with olive oil. There are plenty of variations, all based on sesame seeds, sumac, and thyme or a similar herb. The combination of nutty, sour, and savory makes the taste so versatile and irresistible. Try it for roasted chicken, vegetables, on pizza, hummus, or as a dip.
1.5lbchicken breast or thighscut into 1/2-inch slices
1/2lbcouscousIsraeli
3clovesgarlicgrated
2-3lemons or limesfor juice
1/2cupolive oil
salt
Culinary Spice Kit
Sesame seeds, coriander, sumac, thyme, cumin, black pepper
Instructions
Marinade
Rub chicken with salt to taste.
In a CONTAINER, mix lemon juice, Za'atar spices, garlic, and oil.
Add chicken. Mix well. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge overnight.
Bake
Preheat OVEN to 400ºF.
Grease a large BAKING DISH.
Place the chicken in the BAKING DISH.
Bake the chicken for about 40 minutes until tender inside and crisp on the outside. Turn the chicken halfway.
Serve
Serve chicken with couscous and a fresh salad.
Enjoy!
Notes
▪ Substitute chicken with cauliflower, (sweet) potatoes, eggplant, zucchini, pumpkin, or root vegetables.▪ Substitute couscous with rice or potatoes.▪ Sprinkle Za’atar spices on pizza dough, yogurt, cream cheese, or hummus.▪ Mix Za’atar spices with olive oil as a dipping sauce for bread or vegetables.