Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac
Extra-virgin olive oil from Idlib's ancient groves poured into a shallow bowl and dusted with dried thyme, sumac, and sea salt — the simplest and most honest statement of what makes Idlib cuisine irreplaceable. Served with fresh bread as the beginning of every meal.
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
- ½ cup Idlib-region or high-quality Syrian extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried za'atar thyme
- 1 tsp sumac
- ¼ tsp Aleppo pepper
- ¼ tsp flaky sea salt
- 4 rounds fresh flatbread for serving
- 1 cup fresh green olives or mixed olives
Instructions
- Pour the olive oil into a shallow wide bowl or plate.
- Scatter za'atar, sumac, Aleppo pepper, and sea salt over the surface of the oil.
- Do not stir — let the spices float on the surface.
- Arrange olives alongside.
- Serve immediately with warm flatbread for tearing and dipping.
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 Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac?
Extra-virgin olive oil from Idlib's ancient groves poured into a shallow bowl and dusted with dried thyme, sumac, and sea salt — the simplest and most honest statement of what makes Idlib cuisine irreplaceable. Served with fresh bread as the beginning of every meal.
Where is Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac from?
Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac comes from Idlib Syrian. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac vegetarian or vegan?
As written, Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac 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 dried za'atar thyme in Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac?
The dried za'atar thyme called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac 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 Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac?
In a Syrian appetizers spread, Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac is served as part of a mezze table — alongside warm pita or markook bread, other small dishes, and fresh vegetables. It also works as a starter before a larger meal.
Can I make Idlib Olive Oil Bread Dip with Thyme and Sumac 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.