Za'atar (, ) is a generic name for a family of related Middle Eastern
herbs from the
genera Origanum (
oregano),
Calamintha (
basil thyme),
Thymus (typically
Thymus vulgaris, i.e.,
thyme), and
Satureja (
savory). The name za'atar alone most properly applies to
Origanum syriacum, considered by many to be the hyssop ( ) of the Bible. It is also the name for a
condiment made from the dried herb(s), mixed with
sesame seeds,
dried sumac, and often salt, as well as other
spices. Used in
Arab cuisine, both the herb and
spice mixture are popular throughout the
Middle East.