Zahtar is a traditional Jordanian recipe for a spice blend of sesame seeds, ground sumac and thyme. It has a mix of sour and nutty tastes and is typically used as a condiment, but can also be fried when preparing a stew where it gives a deep red colour to the dish. The full recipe is presented here and I hope you enjoy this classic Jordanian version of Zhatar.
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Zahtar is an aromatic spice mixture derived from Jordan. It's unusual sour and nutty taste derives from a combination of sesame seeds and sumac. Typically it is used as a condiment served with fried or barbecued mutton.
First dry roast the sesame seeds in an oven or in a dry frying pan until they become a golden brown. Allow to cool then powder the thyme in a pestle and mortar then mix with the sesame seeds and sumac.
It can be used, sprinkled over meatballs or vegetables or can be mixed with olive oil to form a paste that can be used as a dip or spread on Breads before baking.
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