Za’atar

Za'atar is the Arabic name for a group of aromatic wild herbs related to thyme and oregano, familiar in kitchens across Lebanon. In its dried leaf form it is commonly brewed as an herbal tea: a spoonful of leaves is steeped in hot water for a few minutes, then strained and served plain or sweetened with a little sugar or honey. Many people enjoy it as a warm drink in the evening or after a meal, and some add the leaves to other herbal blends. You can find za'atar for tea on the shelf at Dekenet Al Nes in Baaqline, in the Chouf. It is sold by the kilo, so you can take as much or as little as you need. Dekenet Al Nes is a package-free shop, so customers are welcome to bring their own jars or bags and refill them in store.