Ingredients

What Is Za'atar? The Spice Behind Palestinian Flavor

If you've tried our loaded fries, you've already tasted za'atar.

Za'atar loaded fries (patatas lux)

Za'atar is a Levantine spice blend made from dried thyme, toasted sesame, sumac (a tart, reddish berry), and salt. It's one of the most recognizable flavors in Palestinian cuisine, found on bread, dipping olive oil, and — in our case — on the loaded fries.

A flavor centuries in the making

In Palestine, za'atar isn't just a seasoning — it's part of the daily routine, mixed with olive oil and spread on bread for breakfast, or sprinkled over vegetables and meats. Every Palestinian family tends to have its own ratio of thyme, sesame, and sumac, passed down through generations.

How we use it at La Shawermeria

Our loaded fries — with or without beef, chicken, or mixed shawarma — feature za'atar as the star, alongside a homemade creamy sauce. It's that herby, slightly tangy touch that sets our fries apart from ordinary fries, and it's a good entry point if you've never tried this spice before.

Taste za'atar on our loaded fries.

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