Za'atar is a spice I only discovered after I had been eating it for years. My favorite pita shop in Syracuse, NY sold this amazing pita bread with spices and olive oil on top. The day I realized those spices were za'atar was the day I started making the pita at home (sorry El Saha!). Then I couldn't help but add za'atar to everything!
Za'atar can refer to both an herb and a blend of spices. One type of za'atar is actually a species of wild thyme found throughout the Middle East. Another type is known throughout the Mediterranean as European oregano or marjoram. However, za'atar also refers to a blend of many different spices, and that blend can differ based on where you buy it. Typically za'atar includes oregano, sumac, sesame seeds, thyme, as well as marjoram, coriander, and number of other spices. My favorite spice shop sells several varieties including Lebanese, Israeli, Syrian, and Jordanian. Any type will do for this recipe.
Za'atar Popcorn
8 cups popped popcorn, still hot
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt (*omit if your za'atar blend already contains salt)
2 tablespoons za'atar
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Pour oil over hot popcorn, toss to coat. In a small bowl, mix salt, za'atar, and pepper. Pour mixture over popcorn and toss until well-incorporated.
Notes:
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
If serving to non-vegans, add freshly grated Parmesan
• Za'atar, various types available from Kalustyan's, $5.99 for a 2 ounce jar
Related: From the Spice Cupboard: Za'atar Seasoning Blend
(Images: Stephanie Barlow)
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For other fun spicy popcorn, replace the za'atar in this recipe with equal parts of chipotle (or other chili) powder and sichuan pepper powder.
Ahhhhh! Such a good idea, I love za'atar and could eat it on everything too!
That sounds good!
I like to pop my popcorn with the seasonings...I sprinkle them on after I add oil to my pan. It helps everything get covered evenly.
Yum! I love za'atar, I like to brush pizza with it.
But popcorn, I've never thought of; how fun!
It's great on popcorn!! I also like brushing it on pita with olive oil and feta (zaatar pizza) and baking it. Stir some into some greek yogurt for a tasty dip for raw vegetables or pita chips.
I think it seems to hold better on the popcorn if you mix it with the olive oil beforehand. Za'atar on popcorn was like a popcorn epiphany when it occurred to me.
oh i loved (and miss) el saha at SU! can't wait to try this one. I've been putting za'atar on pizza dough with feta and it's amazing. Also great in soups, salads, and on baked potatoes.
I try not buy spice blends, I have pretty stalked spice rack filled with individual mostly whole spices. Any idea what makes up this blend?
D'OH! should have clicked on the related link :) Sorry!
I'm having memories of ripping pieces off of a fresh, warm, sesame-crusted bread ring and dipping it into a newspaper cone filled with za'atar. Mmmm. Street food in Jerusalem is fantastic.
I made the popcorn last night and it was delicious. Going to try to Sichuan Pepper version next as recommended by Dave H. :)
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