The Magic of Sumac and Za’atar: A Middle Eastern Spice Story

Hi there! Welcome to Salma’s Nook. Today, we’ll be discussing about two essential ingredients that are used in almost every Middle Eastern household: sumac and za’atar. They’re well known in any Middle Eastern kitchen, adding unique flavor and depth to many dishes.

Subheadings:

The Tangy Lemony Flavor of Sumac

The Nutty Earthy Flavor of Za’atar

Health Benefits of Sumac and Za’atar

Recipes Using Sumac and Za’atar

Where to look for Sumac and Za’atar

The Tangy Lemony Flavor of Sumac

Sumac is a spice that comes from the dried and ground berries of the sumac tree. It has a tangy, lemony flavor that is simply divine. Sumac is used extensively in Middle Eastern cuisine to add a bright acidity to dishes. I use sumac to season meats, salads, and dips such as hummus and baba ganoush. You can also sprinkle it over rice or grilled vegetables for added flavor.

The Nutty Earthy Flavor of Za’atar

Za’atar is a spice blend that typically includes dried thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. It has a nutty, earthy flavor that is perfect for seasoning bread or as a dip for olive oil. Like sumac, za’atar is also commonly used as a seasoning for meats, vegetables, and salads. It adds a unique depth of flavor to any dish and is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine.

Health Benefits of Sumac and Za’atar

Both sumac and za’atar are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Sumac is high in antioxidants and can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Za’atar, on the other hand, is full of vitamins and minerals and can help to boost the immune system. Using these spices in your cooking is an excellent way to add flavor while also promoting good health.

Recipes Using Sumac and Za’atar

Here are a few recipes that incorporate these two essential Middle Eastern spices:

Sumac Roasted Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons sumac
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the sumac, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and olive oil to make a paste.
3. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan.
4. Rub the sumac mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin as well.
5. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
7. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
8. Serve the sumac roasted chicken with your favorite side dishes.

Note: For extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking time.

Za’atar Flatbread

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon za’atar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for brushing
• Extra flour, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, za’atar, and salt.
2. Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
5. Preheat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
6. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and roll each portion out into a thin circle on a floured surface.
7. Brush each flatbread with olive oil on both sides and sprinkle with additional za’atar.
8. Place the flatbreads onto the preheated griddle or pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly charred.
9. Remove the flatbreads from the heat and serve warm as a side dish or appetizer.

Note: You can also bake the flatbreads in a preheated 450°F oven for 8-10 minutes instead of cooking them on a griddle or pan.

Sumac and Za’atar Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 pound mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant), chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sumac
• 1 tablespoon za’atar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with the olive oil, sumac, za’atar, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the vegetables.
3. Spread the seasoned vegetables out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and golden brown.
5. Serve the roasted vegetables hot as a side dish or over rice or quinoa.

Note: Feel free to adjust the amount of sumac and za’atar to suit your personal taste preferences. You can also use any combination of vegetables that you like in this recipe.

Where to look for Sumac and Za’atar

If you’re interested in using sumac and za’atar in your cooking, there are a few places you can look for these ingredients. Middle Eastern grocery stores or specialty food markets are excellent options, as they often carry a wide selection of spices and ingredients used in Middle Eastern cuisine. Online retailers such as Amazon or Penzeys Spices also offer a variety of sumac and za’atar options. You can also find these spices in the spice aisle of many larger grocery stores. No matter where you look, be sure to purchase high-quality spices for the best flavor and results in your cooking.

Both sumac and za’atar are incredibly versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are also packed with health benefits. Sumac is high in antioxidants and can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Za’atar, meanwhile, is full of vitamins and minerals and can help to boost the immune system.

There’s no doubt that these two ingredients are essential for any Middle Eastern pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, sumac and za’atar are sure to add a delicious and unique flavor to your dishes. So next time you’re looking for a way to spice up your meals, give sumac and za’atar a try, you won’t be disappointed!