Sumac carries this, and most supermarket za'atar is thin on it because sumac costs more than thyme. A proper blend is close to a third sumac by volume, which is what gives it that bright, almost lemony sourness. Toast the sesame and use it generously — it is the other third.
The ratio¼ cup dried thyme + ¼ cup sumac + ¼ cup toasted sesame + 1 tsp salt.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep8 min
Cook2 min
Makes¾ cup
CuisineLevantine
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
Contains sesame
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Dried thyme or oregano
A quarter cup. Wild Levantine za'atar herb if you can get it; thyme and oregano together otherwise.
Can you make How to Make Za'atar in an air fryer? — Yes
Yes — bake it in a small pan or dish that fits the basket, at about 25°F below the recipe temperature. Air fryers run hot and fast, so check it early; no flipping needed.
Can you freeze How to Make Za'atar? — Yes
Yes — freeze it well-wrapped, then reheat or toast straight from frozen. Frost or glaze after thawing.
Can you make How to Make Za'atar ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — bake it a day or two ahead; it keeps well-wrapped at room temperature and freezes cleanly. Add any frosting or glaze close to serving.
Is How to Make Za'atar gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is How to Make Za'atar vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.
Open data. Every maker on this site is published as a free dataset under CC BY 4.0 — use it in anything, commercial or not, as long as you credit 5best2buy. Browse the datasets →