Za’atar (an earthy Middle Eastern herb blend)
Za’atar Hummus
Za’atar Roasted Vegetables
Dukkah (A nut & spice blend from Egypt)
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/3 cup almonds or hazelnuts
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1⁄8 tsp ground allspice
- 1⁄2 tsp fine sea salt
- Black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet over a medium heat, combine the walnuts and almonds. Cook, stirring often, until the nuts are starting to smell fragrant, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the sesame seeds to the pan and continue cooking, stirring often, until the sesame seeds are turning lightly golden on the edges. Remove the pan from the heat, and transfer the nut and seed mixture to a food processor.
3. Add the coriander, cumin, allspice, sea salt and pepper. Run the food processor for about 10 seconds, or until the nuts are broken into a coarse, sand-like texture. Don’t overdo it.
4. Store the dukkah in an air-tight container. It will keep for 1-2 weeks.
The Flavour Fix – Dukkah
Dukkah often contains hazelnuts, or almonds, as well as sesame seeds, all of which are rich in healthy unsaturated fats, especially omega- 9s and omega-6s. These fats are known to support cognitive function and memory, help regulate cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation linked to neurological aging.
Dukkah Spiced Sweet Potato Smash on Sourdough
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of sourdough, toasted
- 1 large sweet potato
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp Dukkah
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Sea salt & pepper
- Microgreens or sprouts for topping
- Vegan yogurt drizzle or pomegranate seeds
Instructions:
1. Roast the sweet potato until tender, then mash with olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt, and pepper.
2. Spread generously onto toasted sourdough slices.
3. Sprinkle Dukkah over the top, add microgreens or sprouts.
4. Optionally, drizzle with a tangy sauce like vegan yogurt or sprinkle with some pomegranate seeds.
The Flavour Fix – Dukkah
The key spices in Dukkah- coriander, cumin, and black pepper potent sources are of antioxidants, which help protect cells from oxidative stress; phytonutrients with inflammatory and digestive benefits; and minerals like magnesium, iron, and calcium, particularly from sesame seeds.
Dukkah Crusted Avocado & Citrus Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp Dukkah
- Juice of 1/2 orange
- 1 orange or grapefruit, segmented
- 1 tsp tahini
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- Sea salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Gently press avocado slices into the Dukkah until well-coated.
2. Lightly toast the crusted avocado slices in a dry pan (optional) for added crunch.
3. Whisk together olive oil, orange juice, tahini, sea salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the salad: greens, citrus segments, avocado, and drizzle with dressing.
5. Finish with a pinch more Dukkah over the top for visual texture and flavour.
The Flavour Fix – Dukkah
Unlike many spice blends or condiments, traditional Dukkah contains very little salt, making it an excellent low-sodium flavour enhancer. The toasty, earthy profile helps reduce the need for extra salt without sacrificing taste – great for heart health and blood pressure.