Za'atar has was always part of our breakfast table, whether it is a manaeesh (recipe will come soon) or just taking a piece of bread, dipping it into the best quality olive oil and then into the za'atar. Za'atar is so important in our household. And we know that NOT ALL ZAATAR IS CREATED EQUALLY! Za'atar is generally made with ground dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, or some combination thereof, mixed with toasted sesame seeds, and salt, though other spices such as sumac might also be added. Some varieties may add savory, cumin, coriander or fennel seed. I don't know if it's because I'm biased because I'm Jordanian, but the Jordanian mix is my favorite. Jordanian Za'atar Mix which mixes in Sumac with the Za'atar, however keeping the za'atar as the main ingredient. The Lebanese and Syrian Za'atar also mix in Sumac and some even add Lemon Salt to it. Here's a link to get yourself some za'atar.
We were having family dinner yesterday, like everyday in this quarantine, and I decided to make French fries. But not your ordinary fries... za’atar fries, which are fries tossed in this amazing mix of citrusy, peppery and aromatic spice mix. I decided, instead of frying them, I'd make it in a healthier way and bake them. These are the best oven baked fries you’ve ever tasted! The crispy texture of the fries will surprise you. Tossing the fries in a little olive oil and baking them at a high temperature makes them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. No frying needed and they are absolutely mouthwatering! If you love french fries as much as I do, then you should definitely try this recipe! Oven baked fries with a zesty za'atar twist. It will become your new favorite side dish or finger-food obsession.
Ingredients:
6 Russet potatoes
5 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons salt, divided
1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper
2 tablespoons Za'atar Mix
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
Slice the potatoes into matchsticks place them on a baking tray covered with parchment paper.
Drizzle 5 tablespoons olive oil, season with 1/2 tablespoon salt and toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated.
Bake for 25-35 minutes.
Take the fries out of the oven and transfer to a large bowl.
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of the za’atar spice mix, 1 tablespoon salt, Aleppo pepper and toss until the fries are evenly coated. Add more za’atar spice mix if needed/wanted. Serve.
