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Ever find yourself reaching for the same old seasoning? Maybe a sprinkle of salt, a dash of pepper, or a pinch of oregano? Well, it's time to shake things up (literally) with a seasoning that’s not just delicious but comes with a surprising side benefit—it might just make you smarter! Say hello to za'atar, the brain-boosting spice blend that’s been nicknamed brain food for a reason.
Oh, and for all my foodie people who love national food days? It’s International Za'atar Day on September 23, so grab your best olive oil, dipping bread, and let’s give our brains some extra love with za'atar!
What Is Za'atar, Really?
Sure, you’ve probably seen za'atar nestled on grocery store shelves, packaged neatly in a bottle or jar, ready to sprinkle over your next meal. But let’s dive a bit deeper into this mix of herbs that hails from Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA), where it’s beloved in countries like Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan.
Za'atar isn’t your typical “herb blend.” Forget the fine powders you're used to—real za'atar has a satisfying, coarse texture. It’s made by gently crumbling dried herbs like oregano and thyme, creating a flake-like consistency that adds not just flavor but a pop of crunch. It’s a culinary experience waiting to happen, with layers of tangy, savory, and nutty goodness.
What Makes Za'atar So Special?
Like other iconic herb mixtures (think masalas and curry powders), za'atar varies by region and recipe, with no "one-size-fits-all" formula. One thing’s for sure: each blend offers a unique and flavorful punch, thanks to ingredients like:
- Syrian oregano: This herb, also known as bible hyssop or simply za'atar, gives the blend its earthy and slightly sweet notes. Traditional za'atar just isn’t the same without it.
- Thyme: Some blends swear by thyme, while others say it’s optional. Either way, it’s a dynamic duo when paired with oregano, bringing a fresh herbal zest to every bite.
- Sesame seeds: These little seeds are like nature’s crunch confetti, adding a nutty, buttery texture to the mix. Toast them for extra flavor—your taste buds will love the pop of crunch with each bite.
- Sumac: The zingy, lemony twist. Sumac is what transforms za'atar from a simple herb mix into a flavor bomb. Its slightly acidic, citrus-like notes balance out the warmth of the oregano and thyme.
The Brain Boosting Benefits of Za'atar
Za'atar isn’t just a pretty face in the spice world—it’s got some serious brainpower behind it. For starters, the blend features oregano and thyme, both known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Oregano is packed with compounds that help protect brain cells from oxidative stress (cue those brain-boosting powers). Meanwhile, thyme is not just for seasoning—studies suggest it can help regulate blood pressure and improve circulation, both of which are key for keeping your brain sharp.
But the real powerhouse here might be the sesame seeds. Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and calcium, these little guys are like a nutrient-packed snack for your brain. In ancient times, sesame seeds were so valuable they were compared to gold—talk about a priceless addition to your diet!
How To Use Za'atar in Your Kitchen
Alright, now that you’re convinced za'atar belongs in your pantry (and in your brain), let’s talk about how to use it.
Salad Superstar
Need to amp up your salad game? Toss some za'atar into your next dressing. The tangy sumac pairs perfectly with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar, while the sesame seeds add a lovely crunch. Trust me, your salad will be anything but boring.
The Perfect Rub
Want to elevate your roasted chicken? Za'atar makes an excellent rub for meats. Just massage it into your favorite protein, let it marinate, and enjoy the delicious harmony of oregano, thyme, and sesame seeds with every bite. Pair it with garlic and paprika for an even more flavorful experience.
Flavor-Packed Flatbread
For the ultimate za'atar experience, combine it with olive oil and slather it on flatbread, then bake it to crispy perfection. The resulting dish, known as manakeesh, is a staple in Lebanese and Syrian cuisine. It’s chewy, crunchy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying—perfect for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon snack.
Or, keep it simple: tear off a piece of flatbread, dip it in olive oil, then dunk it in za'atar. The combination of olive oil’s richness with za'atar’s tang and crunch is pure magic.
Pasta and Beyond
Looking for a za'atar twist? Try sprinkling it over lightly buttered pasta. The sesame seeds' nuttiness blends with the comforting warmth of oregano and thyme, transforming a simple dish into a flavor-packed adventure. It’s also fantastic on rice, in soups, or sprinkled over roasted veggies.
The Takeaway: Za'atar Isn’t Just Tasty, It’s Smart
Za'atar isn’t just another seasoning—it’s packed with flavor and brain-boosting benefits. Whether you’re tossing it on a salad, rubbing it on chicken, or dipping bread into olive oil and za'atar, you’re getting a nutrient-rich, flavorful kick in every bite. It’s the perfect way to level up your meals while giving your brain a little extra love!
Already a za'atar fan, or ready to dive in? You’ll be happy to know that za'atar has its very own holiday! International Za'atar Day, celebrated on September 23, honors this beloved herb and its major influence on SWANA and Arab cuisines. So, get ready to enjoy some za'atar at the end of every summer—it’s the perfect excuse to share this flavor-packed goodness with your friends!