Frequently Asked Questions

Learn all about za’atar and more with our answers to all your most commonly asked questions.

How is za’atar pronounced?

Zah-tar ; fun to say, even better to eat.

What is za’atar?

Za’atar is a fragrant Mediterranean herb;  part of the oregano and thyme family - that’s
native to the Levant. It has a bright, earthy, slightly tangy flavor that instantly wakes up any
dish.

It’s also the name of the spice blend made from the herb itself, mixed with sumac, toasted
sesame seeds, and sea salt. In Lebanon, za’atar is a pantry staple - sprinkled on pita, mixed
with olive oil, or added to dips for that signature bold, citrusy flavor.

In short: za’atar is both an herb and a taste of tradition; fresh, zesty, and full of history in
every pinch.

How is Terranean Herbs & Spices’ za’atar different?

Our za’atar begins in Lebanon, sourced from women-owned farms that hand-harvest the
finest herbs for authentic flavor and exceptional health benefits. We keep it pure - no
preservatives, no fillers, just real ingredients that let the flavor shine.

Every batch is crafted by our all-women team in Cleveland, who mix, pack, and seal each
blend with care and integrity. Our za’atar is vegan, gluten-free, keto-, and paleo-friendly; it’s
flavor you can trust, and quality we proudly stand behind.

How is za’atar used?

Za’atar might just be the most versatile spice blend in your kitchen. Tangy, earthy, and savory, it adds instant flavor wherever it goes.

Traditionally, it’s mixed with olive oil and spread over man’oushe - a warm Lebanese flatbread that’s as comforting as it is delicious. But that’s just the start.

Sprinkle za’atar on hummus, roasted veggies, salads, eggs, or chickpeas. Use it as a rub for chicken, fish, or meat, or stir it into dressings and marinades. The sumac in our blend adds a bright, citrusy kick ; all the flavor of lemon, without the squeeze.

What is the difference between the plant, za’atar, and the herb mix?

The za’atar plant is a type of wild thyme native to the Middle East and Levant. Fresh, it’s often used in salads, pies like fatayer, and flatbreads for its bright, herbal flavor.

When the herb is sun-dried and crushed, it becomes the star ingredient in the za’atar spice blend ; mixed with sumac, toasted sesame seeds, and salt to create a shelf-stable mix that adds bold, effortless flavor to almost anything.

Are there different kinds of za’atar?

Yes! Every region in the Middle East has its own take on za’atar ; from Jordan and Palestine to
Lebanon ; each with unique flavor and texture.

Our blend is authentically Lebanese, made with true wild thyme (Origanum syriacum) grown in
Lebanon for its bright, earthy flavor. Some blends use other herbs as substitutes, but real za’atar comes from wild thyme - and you can taste the difference.

Is za’atar good for you?

Absolutely! Za’atar is packed with antioxidants and wholesome ingredients that make it as nourishing as it is flavorful.

Sumac adds even more antioxidant power, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation. Thyme and oregano bring natural compounds like thymol and carvacrol — known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. And sesame seeds provide protein, iron, and healthy fats that help lower cholesterol and support energy.

It’s a blend that’s been loved for both flavor and wellness for centuries. Discover the health benefits of za’atar here and sumac here.

What is special about our Sea Salt?

Our pure Lebanese sea salt comes from the ancient coastal village of Anfeh, where salt has been hand-harvested since 1400 B.C.

Sourced through a Fair Trade supplier, it supports local workers and helps preserve the historic Salinas. The salt is sun-dried, unrefined, and collected by hand using ancestral methods passed down for generations.

Each crystal is rich in natural minerals and carries the pure, traditional flavor of the Mediterranean.