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From eggs to toast, chicken and more, za’atar is a versatile spice from the MIddle East. On Za’atar Day today, we share 5 ways to use the spice beyond hummus.
News18
If you have travelled anywhere in the Middle East recently and have brought back a packet of za’atar, there are a lot of ways to use it. This spice blend usually makes you think of warm pita paired with hummus, but it is now time to get a little more creative in the kitchen. Za’atar is a fragrant spice blend that is beloved for its herby and savoury flavours. It is traditionally made with dried herbs, sesame seeds and sumac, and can add an unexpected flavour and aroma to everyday dishes if used properly.
Do not be afraid to experiment in the kitchen and use it in savoury and sweet dishes, along with vegetables and meat too. From breakfast favourites to snacks, there are plenty of ways to use za’atar beyond its traditional pairings. As Za’atar is celebrated today, here are 5 ways you can incorporate this versatile seasoning and give your food a habibi twist.
Sprinkle It Over Popcorn
Give your regular movie-night popcorn a Middle Eastern makeover with za’atar. Toss freshly popped popcorn with a little melted butter or olive oil, then add za’atar and mix well. The sesame seeds add texture, while the herbs and sumac bring a savoury, slightly tangy flavour.
Add It To Your Eggs
Za’atar can make even a simple breakfast feel more exciting. Sprinkle it over scrambled eggs, omelettes or sunny-side-up eggs just before serving. You can also combine it with a little olive oil and drizzle the mixture over boiled eggs. Pair the eggs with toast, avocado or a simple salad for an easy breakfast with plenty of flavour.
Give Your French Fries A Spice Upgrade
Instead of reaching for the usual chilli powder or seasoning mix, toss freshly cooked fries with za’atar. The blend works particularly well with crispy potatoes because its herby, nutty and tangy notes balance the richness of the fries.
Make Za’atar Butter
Garlic butter will soon become a thing of the past. Turn a simple slice of toast or corn-on-the-cob into a flavour-packed snack by mixing softened butter with za’atar. Spread the butter and finish with some cheese or lemon. The combination of buttery richness, earthy herbs and tangy sumac can make this an easy upgrade.
Quick marinade for protein and vegetables
Za’atar is made with a lot of flavour and spices, so it can double up as a quick marinade for chicken, fish and even roasted vegetables. Bloom the Za’atar in some olive oil and add salt and pepper to the mixture. Then pour it over your meat of choice, massage it into all the folds and crevices, set it on a baking tray and bake it in the oven till cooked. You can also air fry it or steam it. In fact, it can be used as a finishing oil for any fried meat. Brush the za’atar oil on fried chicken and enjoy it warm.
Quick Answers
Ask News18Za’atar can be used beyond traditional pairings, such as sprinkling it over popcorn, adding it to eggs, tossing it with French fries, making za’atar butter, or using it as a quick marinade for protein and vegetables.
Ask News18About the Author
Abigail Banerji is a Senior Sub Editor with News18’s English desk. She brings 6 years of experience across both print and digital newsrooms, spanning editorial planning, reportage, copy editing, conte…Read More
September 06, 2026, 20:52 IST
