Za'atar (زَعْتَر) is a mixture of Middle Eastern herbs: thyme, oregano, marjoram, toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and other spices. It might have been used in Ancient Egypt. Besides great tastes to many dishes, it also has healthy properties. Serve this as a starter with bread or as part of a mezze (Spanish: tapas)
Serves 6
Preheat the oven to 400F (200C)
A. Beets:
2 pounds (510 g) organic beets
2 crushed cloves of garlic
1 red chili, remove the seeds and chop
1 cup (240 ml) organic (dairy-free) yogurt
1 Tbs. (15 ml) date syrup or maple syrup
3 Tbs. (45 ml) olive oil
1 Tbs. (15 g) za'atar
B. Garnish:
2 organic green onions, thinly sliced
2 Tbs. (30 g) toasted hazelnuts, coarsely crushed
2 ounces (60 g) (dairy-free) goat cheese, crumbled
1. Wash beets and place ing a roasting pan.
2. Roast uncovered about an hour, until a knife slides easily into the center.
3. When cooled, peel beets and cut into about 6 pieces. Allow to cool more.
4. Place beets, garlic, chili, and yogurt in a food processor. Belen to smooth paste.
5. Transfer to a bowl and stir in date/maple syrup, oil, za'atar.
6. Transfer the mixture to a serving plate.
7. Scatter green onions, hazelnuts, and cheese on top. Drizzle with a little oil.
8. Serve at room temperature.
