Za'atar from New York Shuk

Middle Eastern Spice Blend with Traditional Za'atar Leaves

Simultaneously woodsy and bright, za'atar is an essential spice blend ideal for enhancing fresh vegetables, roasted meat, cheese and so much more. Recipes for this spice mix vary and while not all za'atar blends contain the za'atar herb—the pungent cousin to oregano that also gives this blend its namesake—New York Shuk follows the traditional route. Their za'atar mix is based on an ancient Jerusalem recipe combining crushed za'atar leaves, sumac, sesame seeds, extra virgin olive oil and salt. Nutty and herbaceous with a delicate tang, this versatile spice blend adds complexity to even the simplest of dishes.

How to use

Make man'ousheh—a flatbread popular throughout the Levant—by mixing za'atar with extra virgin olive oil and brushing it over the dough. We also love using this blend as a fragrant spice rub for chicken, lamb or potatoes before oven roasting. Or, simply sprinkle this za'atar over thick-cut slices of tomatoes drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, hunks of sharp feta cheese or egg dishes.

About the producer

Shuk means "market" in Hebrew. For Ron and Leetal Arazi, chefs and founders of New York Shuk, the bustling outdoor Israeli markets represent the intersection between culture and community, two values they wish to share through their products. Based in Brooklyn, New York, the husband-and-wife team draw culinary inspiration from their combined Jewish, Moroccan, Lebanese, Turkish and Eastern European heritages to create vibrant pantry staples to enhance everyday cooking.