The za’atar seasoning mix is very popular in the Middle East. Recipes may vary, but the most common base ingredients are Syrian oregano, fragrant lemon balm, thyme, savory, sumac or terebinth fruits. Some of these herbs help with proper digestion. Salt is often added to za’atar as well. The taste is quite specific; for example, I can sense a strong smoky flavor in it.
Za’atar was one of the things I wanted to bring home from Israel. I was even more delighted when I received it as a small gift with a Jerusalem bagel purchased at a small bakery. The bakers simply called za’atar “salt.”
