The simple spice mix everyone is adding to dinner: why chefs and home cooks now reach for it daily

Before being a trend, zaatar is first and foremost a tradition. In the countries of the Levant, it is as much a part of everyday life as bread or olive oil. It can be found on family tables, often eaten simply, without artifice.

Originally, the word "zaatar" referred to a wild plant, close to oregano, that grows in this region. Over time, the term has evolved to designate a blend of spices whose composition varies from country to country, from family to family, and even from individual to individual.

But there's almost always one basic ingredient: a dried herb (such as thyme or oregano), toasted sesame seeds and sumac, the slightly acidic spice that gives the blend its uniqueness. It's simple, but frighteningly effective.

From the very first taste, it's clear why zaatar is so appealing. It's unlike any other spice.

Its aromatic profile is at once herbaceous, lightly toasted thanks to sesame, and enhanced by a hint of acidity provided by sumac. This contrast creates a very interesting balance, instantly awakening a dish without making it heavy.

And that's where its strength lies: a pinch is all it takes to give character to a simple preparation. Where some seasonings can mask flavors, zaatar accompanies and enhances them.

This is an often underestimated but particularly interesting point. Zaatar adds a great deal of flavor without adding excess fat or salt.

As part of a more balanced diet, it's a real ally. Because the tastier a dish, the less you feel the need to add to it or compensate with other foods.

In other words, pleasure plays a key role here. And that changes everything in the way you eat every day.

Beyond its gustatory appeal, zaatar also has recognized properties, particularly on the digestive front.

The herbs it contains, such as thyme and oregano, are known to stimulate digestive secretions and limit feelings of heaviness after a meal. These plants have long been used for their soothing effect on the digestive system.

Combined with olive oil, as is very often the case, the blend becomes even more interesting, as some of its compounds are better assimilated in the presence of fats.

Zaatar also draws its strength from its rich antioxidant content. Sumac, in particular, is particularly interesting in this respect.

Its characteristic red color is linked to the presence of polyphenols, compounds known for their ability to protect cells against oxidative stress. This phenomenon is implicated in cell ageing and certain chronic diseases.

Sesame seeds, meanwhile, provide unsaturated fatty acids and other beneficial nutrients, rounding out the blend's profile.

Without making it a miracle product, zaatar can easily be included in a varied, balanced diet.

Some of its ingredients are associated with improved metabolism, cholesterol and blood sugar levels. These effects can be explained by the combination of its ingredients and their wealth of active compounds.

It is precisely this synergy that makes the blend interesting in the long term.

What makes zaatar so popular today is its ease of use.

It requires no special technique. Simply add it just before serving, as a finishing touch, or mix it with a drizzle of olive oil to create an aromatic base.

In fact, its flavors are often best revealed raw. Heat can attenuate certain aromas, whereas when finished, it retains all its complexity.

Another strong point is its versatility. Zaatar is not limited to one type of cuisine.

It blends easily with many ingredients, without ever dominating the dish. It goes equally well with simple preparations or more elaborate recipes.

This adaptability explains its growing success in contemporary kitchens.

It's no accident that zaatar is so popular today. It's part of a more global trend: a return to simple, authentic products, rich in taste.

At a time when people are looking to eat better, without complicating their lives, it ticks all the boxes. Less processed, easy to use, but always delicious.

Sometimes, all it takes is one ingredient to transform the way you cook.

Zaatar is clearly one of them. Simple, tasty and full of character, it gives a new dimension to everyday dishes, without any particular effort.

And as an added bonus, it also offers some interesting health benefits.

So, are you ready to make room for it in your kitchen?)