Zeit wa Zaatar
The simplest and most iconic Lebanese condiment: dried mountain thyme blended with sesame and sumac, mixed with olive oil to form the dipping paste for fresh bread. This is the taste of Lebanese morning.
Cook this hands-free
All 214 Sofra recipes are free in the app. This one includes step-by-step English voice narration, hands-free Cooking Mode, and the original oud music by Charbel Rouhana.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Ingredients
- 80 g Lebanese zaatar dry blend
- 120 ml Good-quality olive oil
- 1 tbsp (optional, for extra crunch) Extra sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the zaatar dry blend with olive oil. Stir thoroughly.
- The mixture should be thick enough to not pool but liquid enough to spread on bread without resistance.
- If the zaatar absorbs all the oil, add more oil. The ratio is personal — some prefer drier, some wetter.
- Add extra sesame seeds if desired for crunch.
- Serve immediately in a small flat dish alongside fresh pita or khubz al-saj.
- For man'ousheh topping: use a thicker blend (less oil) and spread generously over raw dough before baking.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step voice narration guides you hands-free. Faten's Idlib recipes carry her own Syrian-Arabic narration. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zeit wa Zaatar?
The simplest and most iconic Lebanese condiment: dried mountain thyme blended with sesame and sumac, mixed with olive oil to form the dipping paste for fresh bread. This is the taste of Lebanese morning.
Where is Zeit wa Zaatar from?
Zeit wa Zaatar comes from Lebanese Mountains. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Zeit wa Zaatar vegetarian or vegan?
As written, Zeit wa Zaatar uses only plant-based ingredients, so it is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. Always double-check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.
What can I use instead of lebanese zaatar dry blend in Zeit wa Zaatar?
The lebanese zaatar dry blend called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Zeit wa Zaatar its authentic character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with Zeit wa Zaatar?
In a Lebanese condiments spread, Zeit wa Zaatar is served as an accompaniment — spooned alongside grilled meats, vegetables, breads, or other mezze dishes.
Can I make Zeit wa Zaatar ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
Yes — leftovers keep well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat gently (or bring to room temperature for cold dishes) and taste to adjust seasoning before serving. Dishes with fresh herbs or dressing are freshest the day they are made.