Za'atar Spice Mix (with oil)

Thyme: A fragrant herb that adds a subtle earthiness to the mix.

Sumac: A tangy, lemony spice that gives the mix its distinctive flavor.

Toasted sesame seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch.

Oregano: A robust herb that complements the thyme and adds depth.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.

Olive oil: Binds the spices together and adds a rich, smooth texture.

To enhance the flavor of your za'atar spice mix, consider lightly crushing the dried thyme and dried oregano with a mortar and pestle before mixing. This releases their essential oils, making the blend more aromatic and flavorful.

• dried thyme - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram has a similar earthy and slightly minty flavor that can mimic the taste of dried thyme.

• ground sumac - Substitute with lemon zest and a pinch of salt: Lemon zest provides the citrusy tang, and a pinch of salt adds the slight bitterness that ground sumac offers.

• toasted sesame seeds - Substitute with toasted sunflower seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds have a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture, making them a good alternative to toasted sesame seeds.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil has a sweet and slightly peppery flavor that can stand in for the aromatic and slightly bitter taste of dried oregano.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can provide the salty flavor along with an added depth of umami, though it will add moisture to the mix.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and similar consistency, making it a good substitute for olive oil in the spice mix.

• Ensure your airtight container is clean and completely dry before storing the za'atar spice mix. Any moisture can cause the mix to spoil more quickly.

• Store the za'atar spice mix in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Exposure to light and heat can degrade the quality of the spices and olive oil.

• If you plan to use the mix within a week, keeping it at room temperature is fine. For longer storage, consider refrigerating the mix to extend its shelf life.

• When refrigerating, ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent the olive oil from absorbing any unwanted odors from other foods in the fridge.

• For even longer storage, you can freeze the za'atar spice mix. Place the mix in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.

• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of its freshness. Frozen za'atar spice mix can last up to six months without significant loss of flavor.

• When ready to use, allow the za'atar spice mix to come to room temperature. This will help the olive oil return to its liquid state and make the mix easier to stir and apply.

• Always use a clean, dry spoon to scoop out the mix to avoid introducing moisture or contaminants that could spoil the spice blend.

• For a quick and easy method, place the za'atar spice mix in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until it warms up, ensuring the olive oil doesn't reach a smoking point.

• If you prefer using a microwave, transfer the za'atar spice mix to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds, then stir and check the temperature. Repeat if necessary.

• To reheat in an oven, preheat to 200°F (93°C). Spread the za'atar spice mix on a baking sheet and place it in the oven for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

• For a more traditional approach, use a double boiler. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the za'atar spice mix in the top pot and stir occasionally until warmed through.

• If you have a toaster oven, set it to the lowest temperature setting. Spread the za'atar spice mix on a small baking tray and heat for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine all the dry ingredients together.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, oregano, and salt.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the olive oil precisely.

• Whisk: Useful for thoroughly mixing the dry ingredients before adding the olive oil.

• Spatula: Helps in stirring the olive oil into the dry mix to ensure even distribution.

• Airtight container: Necessary for storing the za'atar spice mix to keep it fresh.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, oregano, and salt in advance to streamline the process.

Use a small jar: Combine all the dry ingredients in a small jar, then add the olive oil and shake well to mix.

Batch preparation: Make a larger batch of the za'atar spice mix and store it in an airtight container for future use.

Toasted sesame seeds: Buy pre-toasted sesame seeds to save time on toasting them yourself.