Za’atar/Syrian Oregano

Sometimes called “Syrian oregano”, this potent oregano is a popular herb (fresh or dried) for seasoning soups, sauces, salads, stuffing, stews, roasts, vegetables, and meats. Dried leaves may be added to potpourris. Za’atar is not only a common name for this plant, but is also the name of a seasoning preparation (consisting of dried/crushed leaves plus sesame seeds, ground sumac berries, salt, and pepper), which is exceedingly popular in the Middle East. Za’atar is often baked into the crust of pita bread. Yummo!