What puts the zing in Za’atar are traditional Palestinian spices for cooking with any type of meal. These spices usually consist of a mix from wild herbs such as Thyme, Sumac, Sesame Seeds and Sea Salt. However, variations could include other herbs such as: paprika, hyssop (a rare aromatic minty plant), cumin or oregano or many, many more. The possibilities are endless, which makes the Zest of Za’atar some of the best herbs available and this is why Café Etico sells Za’atar along with our other Palestinian products.
What Makes Za’atar Special?
Za’atar, unlike most mixed herbs, has its own perks. It’s rarely ever sold alone - Palestinians know that in order to unlock the Thyme you need Sumac. This is because Thyme gives an elegant perfume while the Sumac gives a lemony edge. Any further herbs in the mix, just add to its beauty.
It is the rarity of the mixture which is gaining prominence worldwide, the quality of Za’atar would not come as a surprise to the farmers who handpick the herbs from the hills of the West Bank
Earnings go toward providing Fair Trade payments for more than 1,200 farmers, in 49 different cooperatives in the Palestinian Free Trade Association (PFTA), ensuring the future of Za’atar plantations, and more importantly, the people of Palestine.
How do I Use Za’atar?
The variety and flavours of the herbs means it can be used in almost anything, but we believe it is particularly useful in enhancing a salad dressing, a fine stew, soup, or even pizza!
One of our personal favourites are Pita Crisps - truly a Za’atar classic, and simple to make. Just cut Pita Bread into wedges, spread the Zatoun Extra Virgin Olive Oil and a teaspoon of Za’atar on each piece and then toast.
Café Etico guarantees that you will love it!
Download the recipe booklet, filled with ideas on how to use Za’atar and get the best out of it. But remember the herbs are so good - experiment with anything!
Why Should You Buy Zatoun from Café Etico?
Zatoun is the trade name of Palestine Peace Awareness Inc. a legal non-profit organization which seeks to send the message of peace and awareness for Palestine. All proceeds of Zatoun go toward the farmers and children of occupied Palestine. “Zatoun” was selected as the trade name because in Arabic it means “olive branch”, signifying peace.
Zatoun also has other goals such as forging long term trade links with Canada for the Palestinian state, while also introducing Canadians to Palestinian history, customs, society and art. Furthermore, a portion of each item sold goes toward Project Hope which equips Palestinian young people with the necessary skills to compete globally. It is because of this work that they received a nomination for the YMCA awards and later won the 2004 YMCA Peace Medal for Greater Toronto.
As Zatoun’s popularity has grown in North America so has their ability to continue supporting community groups in Palestine, and shining a spotlight on the work of farmers, especially women and youth.
