One of my favorite things about living in Jordan, is that I have access to herbs that aren’t available in DC. Za’atar leaves, for example, are pretty much everywhere here in Jordan. When I lived in DC, I craved these za’atar leaves. I wanted them so badly, so I could use them in recipes like Fresh Zaatar Focaccia. Now, I’ve got the goods, and I intend to use them for nothing other than deliciousness. First item of business, Savory Fresh Herb Za’atar Muffins.
(more…)Zaatar
Fresh Zaatar Focaccia
I’ve been dying to get my hands on some fresh zaatar to make Fresh Zaatar Focaccia. Unfortunately, fresh zaatar is hard to find around DC. Really hard to find. I, however, am a very determined woman. When I want something, I find a way to get it. That’s probably why I’ve been told it’s so hard to find gifts for my birthday. I usually get what I want before anyone knows I’ve been pining over it. Shopping and food cravings alike, I am determined to get what I want. This time, I wanted fresh Zaatar Focaccia. (more…)
Oven Baked Sweet Potato Za’atar Fries
I had the most amazing za’atar fries at Falafel Inc. in DC over the summer. If you haven’t been there, this small place off M street also has delicious falafel sandwiches, for the affordable price of $3. Not only are their falafel sandwiches $3, but get this … for every $10 earned by Falafel Inc., the restaurant feeds a refugee for a day through its donations to the World Food Programme. (This is not an ad, I just really love the food, the mission, and well, who doesn’t love falafel?). You have to get the za’atar fries. You will not regret it.
Admittedly, I got my inspiration from Falafel Inc. for Oven Baked Sweet Potato Za’atar Fries. (more…)
Olive Oil Zaatar Bread
Baking is an exact science. It’s exact measurements with little room for experimentation. That’s not to say it can’t be done … there’s just a higher probability of making a mistake and essentially ruining your entire baked good. In conclusion –you guessed it—measuring cups are definitely NOT optional when it comes to baking. (more…)
Samboosa [Meat and Cheese Filled Pastries]
Ramadan Kareem!
Yesterday marked the first day of the holy month of Ramadan – where billions of people around the world refrain from food and drink from sunrise until sunset for 29-30 days based on the lunar calendar. It is a time to reflect on your life, reconnect with god and be thankful for everything you have, most notably a kitchen full of food (which those less fortunate do not have the luxury of having). (more…)
Panini Grilled Za’atar Chicken
I grew up eating za’atar wih labaneh in a sandwich, or as a dip with Arabic bread. Lately, I’ve been noticing a zaatar craze outside middle eastern households. It’s starting to catch on, like hummus. So I found this great recipe for Za’atar Chicken that I adapted from Bon Appetit, and I thought why not try something new with a food I’m used to having a much different way. Well, I tried it and the my dad’s taste buds were utterly confused. Give it a try, and let me know what you think.
Panini Grilled Za’atar Chicken
Ingredients
2 Chicken Breasts 4 cloves Garlic, minced 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons zaatar juice from 1 lemon 1 tablespoon dry RosemaryDirections
Mix together zaatar, olive oil, lemon juice and dry rosemary in a large ziplock bag. Add chicken and coat chicken well. Marinate 1 hour to overnight. Grill the chicken on the panini grill until cooked through. Sprinkle with zaatar before serving.
Servings: 2
Nutrition Information: Cals 276. Carbs 12g. Fat 17g. Protein 24g. Sodium 259mg.