12 Best Substitute For Zaatar to Try Out

From its distinctive balance of earthy, acidic, and nutty tastes, zaatar is a tasty Middle Eastern spice blend made from sumac, sesame seeds, and thyme. It is frequently added to flatbreads, used in Mediterranean cuisine, or combined with olive oil for dipping. 

But if you’re seeking for something different or can’t locate zaatar, there are some excellent substitutes that can provide you comparable tastes and advantages. 

Dried thyme may be combined with sesame seeds and a little lemon zest or sumac for a fast and tart alternative to zaatar. They still include a lot of antioxidants and good fats, and these alternatives are great in salads, hummus, and roasted veggies. 

These substitutes can add new tastes to your food, whether you’re out of zaatar or just want to try something else.

Best Substitute For Zaatar

1. Coriander

With its many uses, coriander might be a terrific substitute for Zaatar especially if you want something new and tasty. Known for its unique, spicy flavor, coriander is a powerful antioxidant that can infuse a range of foods with a zesty, vibrant burst of flavor. 

It’s a quick and simple method to add flavor to your food, whether you’re making a stew or adding it to your salad. Coriander has several health advantages in addition to being a good alternative to za’atar. 

It contains anti-inflammatory qualities that can support general health and is excellent for digestion. Add it to meat marinades, sprinkle it over roasted vegetables, or use it in dips like hummus. It’s an easy and tasty way to give your favorite meals a taste boost and nutritional boost!

2. Thyme

Have you ever had a yearning for Zaatar yet been unable to find it? Don’t worry, thyme may be used in its place! 

Thyme is a great substitute for zaatar when you’re short on time since it adds a distinct, earthy flavor that may nearly resemble the fragrant herbs in Zaatar. 

It is also widely available and versatile in cooking. In addition to being a fantastic substitute, thyme has health advantages. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities that can strengthen your immune system. 

Anything from pizza to roasted veggies may benefit from the addition of thyme, which can also be used in marinades and salad dressings to give your food the delicious, fresh boost it needs!

3. Oregano

If you’re missing the unique, herbaceous flavor of zaatar but can’t get it, don’t panic; there are a number of substitutes that will also add a tart, delicious bite to your cuisine. 

Using oregano, thyme, or even a special blend made with sesame seeds, sumac, and a little salt can have the same effect. 

Just keep in mind that each of these substitutes will give your meal a distinct flavor, even if they may taste close to zaatar. 

Have fun and try new things! Determining what your taste buds appreciate is, after all, the secret to cooking.

4. Sumac

We’ve all heard of the well-known Middle Eastern spice combination known as za’atar, but have you ever thought of using sumac instead? 

Sumac is rapidly becoming more and more popular in kitchens all around the world thanks to its vivid red color and acidic, lemony flavor. Without the earthy overtones that za’atar adds, it’s the ideal substitute for those seeking a spicy touch in their meals. 

Sumac not only gives your food a distinctive acidity, but it also has several health advantages. Packed with antioxidants, it can improve your immune system, lessen inflammation, and aid with digestion. 

For an immediate taste boost, you may use it in marinades, on salads, or even on roasted vegetables. Whether you’re making Mediterranean food or trying out new flavors, sumac is a healthy and adaptable choice!

5. Marjoram

Finding new tastes in the kitchen is the first step, and marjoram might be the ideal substitute for  zaatar in your recipes. Marjoram is a fantastic substitute for za’atar since it adds a comparable earthy and warm touch to the sour, herbaceous flavor of za’atar. 

This Mediterranean herb is ideal for meals that require a little more zing without overpowering them because of its delicate, sweet taste with citrus undertones. Marjoram is very adaptable! It may be mixed into soups and stews, added to salads, or sprinkled on meats. 

For a novel touch, it’s also a fantastic addition to marinades or roasted veggies. In addition to its taste, marjoram has health advantages including improving immunity and facilitating digestion, making it a tasty and nutritious complement to any dish.

Read also, TOP 15 Best Substitutes For Dried Savory

6. Salt

This: Za’atar, a common Middle Eastern spice combination, may be effectively replaced with salt, which is an unexpected but effective alternative. Although the mix of herbs, sesame seeds, and sumac in za’atar is distinctive, salt adds its own taste and adaptability. 

Salt may be used as a substitute for some of the more sophisticated spices included in za’atar if you’re searching for a quick and easy approach to season food. There are several advantages to substituting salt. 

It is an excellent complement to meats, vegetables, and even salads since it brings out the inherent tastes of food. It’s also a staple that you can always find in your kitchen. Salt may be added over roasted potatoes, used to make a fast sandwich, or sprinkled over hummus.

7. Sesame seeds

In many recipes, the unassuming sesame seed may be used in place of za’atar since it is a nutritional and flavorful powerhouse. In addition to being excellent for your health, sesame seeds give your food a distinctive, nutty flavor and are high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. 

Whether you add sesame seeds to baked products, blend them into hummus, or sprinkle them over salads, they offer crunch and vitality. Beyond their taste, sesame seeds are a great source of antioxidants and minerals like calcium and iron, which help to boost your immune system and promote bone health. 

Sesame seeds may be used in lieu of za’atar in recipes like roasted vegetables, flatbreads, and even smoothies if you want to up your spice game. Adaptable, delicious, and nutritious, Sesame seeds are an easy-to-make yet effective cooking staple.

8. Cumin

When you want to add some variation to your typical recipes, cumin is a great substitute for zaatar because of its warm, earthy taste and subtle peppery sting. 

Cumin offers a deeper, spicier tone that may completely transform your food, while za’atar gives a herby, acidic taste. If you want to try different flavors without losing the Middle Eastern feel, this is an excellent choice. 

Cumin has several health advantages as well! It is well recognized for improving immunity, promoting better digestion, and even aiding with weight loss. It may be added to your favorite meats and stews, mixed into hummus, or sprinkled over roasted vegetables. 

Cumin may readily replace za’atar in recipes and add a distinct taste character, whether you’re preparing a complete dinner or just a fast snack.

Read also, 9 Best Substitutes For Summer Savory

9. Baharat Spice Blend

If you want to experiment with your cuisine, don’t limit yourself to the same old flavors! The Baharat spice combination is an excellent substitute for zaatar if you’re out of it or just want to try something different. 

Warm spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, and black pepper are combined in this Middle Eastern aromatic blend to provide a deep, delicious taste that may elevate your food. 

Baharat is not only a fantastic substitute, but it is also very adaptable! For a rich, soothing flavor, you may add it to soups and stews, mix it into kebabs or grilled meats, or sprinkle it over roasted vegetables. 

It offers health benefits including better digestion and anti-inflammatory qualities, making it ideal for giving your meals a strong punch. Thus, the next time you want to change things up, choose Baharat to easily improve your cuisine!

10. Duqqa

A tasty alternative to za’atar, duqqa is a fragrant and savory Middle Eastern spice blend that is rapidly becoming more and more well-known. 

Duqqa has a rich, nutty flavor with a touch of spice and is made with a combination of sesame seeds, coriander, cumin, and other herbs. It’s highly adaptable and ideal for giving any meal depth and complexity. 

Duqqa is a versatile ingredient that may be added to hummus, used as a meat spice, or combined with olive oil to make a dipping sauce. It’s also excellent for adding flavor to avocado toast, roasted veggies, and salads. 

Beyond its incredible flavor, duqqa is a delicious and nourishing complement to your meals since it is high in protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.

11. Mixed Herbs

You know how it feels to want za’atar yet not have any on hand? Not to worry! An excellent substitute is to use a mixture of herbs. 

The earthy, fragrant flavor of mixed herbs, which are a mixture of dried herbs including thyme, oregano, and marjoram, makes them ideal for recipes that call for za’atar. 

Without being overbearing, they add a fresh, herbaceous bite that gives your food just the proper amount of depth and flavor. Plus, mixed herbs are very adaptable! They may be used to hummus, tossed with roasted vegetables, or sprinkled on flatbreads. 

They work well on pizza, in soups, and in marinades. Their anti-inflammatory properties and abundance of antioxidants make them not only delicious but also healthful. Thus, the next time you run out of za’atar, grab some mixed herbs and savor the delectable taste boost!

12. Shichimi Togarashi

Are you trying to find a fresh and interesting taste to add to your food? A Japanese spice combination called Shichimi Togarashi might be the ideal substitute for Zaatar. It adds a distinct fire and complexity to your foods with its potent blend of chili flakes, sesame seeds, and aromatic spices. 

Shichimi Togarashi provides the same adaptable kick in a novel way if you enjoy the savory, herbaceous undertones of Zaatar but would like to try something a bit different. You can add this tasty combination to stir-fried meats, roasted vegetables, or even soups like ramen to give them a little additional kick. 

Plus, it’s loaded with health advantages because of ingredients like nori and sesame, which aid with digestion and offer antioxidants. Whether you’re cooking a traditional dish or experimenting with new recipes, Shichimi Togarashi is the perfect way to level up your kitchen game.

Conclusion 

Don’t worry if you’re missing the distinct, herbaceous taste of zaatar but are unable to obtain it; there are several substitutes that will still provide your food a sour, flavorful kick. You can get the same effect whether you use oregano, thyme, or even a custom combination created with sesame seeds, sumac, and a little salt. Just remember that although these alternatives might taste similar to zaatar, each will provide a unique flavor to your dish. Try new things and enjoy yourself! After all, the key to cooking is figuring out what your taste senses prefer.