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Za'atar is one of the easiest ways to make eggs, flatbread and roasted vegetables taste better. The catch is that blends vary wildly in salt, sesame and sumac. Here's how six options compare.
Finding the best za’atar is mostly about knowing what you want in the jar. Some blends lean on sesame and sumac, some add cumin or lemon zest, and some bring plenty of salt. That changes how you use them.
We compared six products on ingredients, size, diet details and the patterns in owner feedback. Think of this as notes from one home cook to another, shared on muslimrestaurant.com. We lead with the single most dependable jar, then widen out to bulk packs, a premium-style pick and one wildcard.
Owners keep returning to the same themes: freshness, how much sesame is in there, whether it’s too salty, and whether it smells like much. We’ve weighted those heavily, because they decide whether a jar gets used or forgotten.
Key Takeaways
- Salt level changes everything: Badia's blend is salt-free, while some owners found McCormick too salty, so check how you plan to season before choosing.
- Sesame and sumac dominate: Some owners note the Badia jar is mostly sesame seeds and sumac, which suits topping dips but may feel light on herbs.
- Bulk only helps heavy users: The 12.5 oz McCormick and the two-bottle Roland pack make sense for frequent cooks, not for someone trying za'atar once.
- Authenticity is subjective: Hyssop, thyme, cumin and lemon all appear across these blends, so 'authentic' depends on the regional style you prefer.
- One pick isn't really za'atar: Mediterranean Magic is a citrus herb blend with orange, chile and mint, so treat it as a companion seasoning rather than a substitute.
Our Top Picks for Best Za'Atar
- Best Overall: Badia Za’atar – salt-free, widely reviewed and praised for freshness and versatility.
- Best Organic: Watkins Organic Za’atar – USDA Organic with very positive owner comments and the top rating here.
- Best for Bulk: McCormick Culinary Za’atar – a large container with cumin and lemon zest, though some find it salty.
| # | Product | Rating | Our Score | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | ★★★★★ 4.6 | 9.3 | See price | View |
| 2 |  | ★★★★★ 4.7 | 9.1 | See price | View |
| 3 |  | ★★★★★ 4.5 | 8.3 | See price | View |
| 4 |  The Spice Way Pure Sumac and Real Zaatar -…Best for Traditionalists | ★★★★★ 4.6 | 8.0 | See price | View |
| 5 |  Roland Foods Za'atar Spice Blend, Specialty Imported Food, 16-Ounce…Runner-Up for Volume | ★★★★☆ 4.3 | 7.6 | See price | View |
| 6 |  Mediterranean Magic - Andrew Zimmern, 3 Ounce (Pack of…Best Za'atar Alternative | ★★★★★ 4.5 | 7.4 | See price | View |
The Best Best Za'Atar: Reviewed
1. Badia Za'atar: the dependable salt-free all-rounder
Verdict: A salt-free blend with a huge owner base, strong ratings and real versatility. It's the safest first jar for most kitchens.
Badia lists thyme, oregano, sumac and toasted sesame seeds, which gives you the tangy, nutty, herbal profile most people expect. The 4 oz bottle is a sensible size for a spice you’ll sprinkle rather than measure by the spoonful.
The big selling point is that it’s listed as salt free, gluten free, halal, kosher and no MSG. That lets you control seasoning yourself, which matters if you’re also using salted feta, labneh or brined olives. It does contain sesame, so allergy households should skip it.
With a 4.6 rating across nearly 2,800 reviews, it has the strongest track record here. Owners use it on roasted vegetables, soups, salads and dressings, and one pairs it with Italian seasoning and garlic. Several say a little goes a long way.
The trade-off is character. Some owners say it’s mostly sesame and sumac, and aroma opinions split, with some finding it wonderful and others noticing very little smell. If you want a punchier, herb-forward mix, you may want to add dried thyme yourself.
What Owners Say
Owners repeatedly call it flavorful, fresh and versatile, using it on vegetables, soups, salads and dressings. Many like the absence of salt. Complaints are modest: a few say it’s mostly sesame seeds and sumac, and aroma is mixed, with some noticing very little smell.
Pros
- Salt-free, so you control seasoning
- Large, consistent owner base at 4.6 stars
- Versatile across vegetables, soups, salads and dressings
- Described as fresh; a little goes a long way
- Halal, kosher, gluten free and no MSG
Cons
- Some owners find it mostly sesame and sumac
- Aroma is inconsistent by some accounts
- Contains sesame, an allergen
Best for: First-time buyers and cooks who want to control salt Not for: Anyone avoiding sesame or wanting a strongly herbal blend
| Brand Name | Badia |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Granule |
| Diet Type | Gluten Free, Halal, Kosher, Vegetarian |
| Specialty | Gluten Free, Kosher, Halal, No MSG, No Salt |
| Allergen Information | Sesame Seeds |
| Flavor | Mediterranean Seasoning |
| Region of Origin | Unites States |
| Item Highlight | Sesame Seeds, Sumac, Spices, Salt Free Seasoning |
| UPC | 033844000905 |
| Container Type | Bottle |
2. Watkins Organic Za'atar: certified organic and well liked
Verdict: A USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project verified blend with the highest rating of the group. Smaller jar, but owner comments are consistently positive.
Watkins is the choice if organic matters to you. The jar carries USDA Organic certification and Non-GMO Project verification, and the listing pitches it as a dry rub for cauliflower, potatoes and eggplant, plus bread with olive oil, eggs, mezze dips and even popcorn.
At 2.6 oz, it’s the smallest container here, so it’s a better fit for a pantry you rotate often than for heavy batch cooking. That also helps freshness, since you’re less likely to keep a jar for years.
Its 4.7 rating is the best on this list, though with about 530 reviews the evidence base is smaller than Badia’s. Owners describe it as a delicious spice blend that tastes fresh, and one likes it in egg sandwiches.
The supplied listing doesn’t spell out the full ingredient list or salt content, so check the label if sodium or specific herbs matter to you. It also contains sesame. For everyday sprinkling, though, the feedback points to a pleasant, fresh-tasting mix.
What Owners Say
Owners enjoy the flavor, call it a delicious spice blend, and describe it as fresh and versatile, with egg sandwiches mentioned. The feedback has no notable complaints, but it’s a limited set of comments, so treat the praise as encouraging rather than definitive.
Pros
- USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project verified
- Highest rating on this list at 4.7
- Owners describe it as fresh and delicious
- Works on eggs, vegetables, dips and popcorn
Cons
- Smallest container of the group
- Full ingredients and salt content aren't in the supplied details
- Contains sesame
- Less owner evidence than Badia
Best for: Organic-minded cooks who want a fresh, small jar Not for: Bulk users or sesame-allergic households
| Brand Name | Watkins |
|---|---|
| Coin Variety 1 | spice |
| Item Form | Powder |
| Diet Type | Vegetarian |
| Specialty | GMO Free, Organic |
| Produce Sold As Format | Pre-packaged |
| Region of Origin | United States |
| Allergen Information | Sesame Seeds |
| UPC | 813724027136 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00813724027136 |
3. McCormick Culinary Za'atar: big container, mixed reactions
Verdict: A 12.5 oz foodservice-style jar with cumin and lemon zest. Good for volume cooking, but owners are split on saltiness and authenticity.
McCormick Culinary is built for people who go through spice quickly. The 12.5 oz container has a flip-top lid with two dispensing options, so you can pour freely or measure. The listing highlights cumin, thyme, sesame seeds and lemon zest, plus no added MSG.
That cumin and lemon makes it taste different from a sesame-and-sumac blend. If you like a warmer, citrusy rub for chicken, beef or lamb, that’s a plus. If you want a classic sumac tang, it may feel like a departure.
Its 4.5 rating over about 650 reviews is solid, but the detail is mixed. Some owners praise the flavor and say it goes with any food, while others find it too salty. Some question its authenticity, and views on value are divided.
Because of that salt comment, taste a pinch before adding more salt elsewhere. It’s a practical pick for restaurants, meal-preppers and big households, but a smaller jar is a lower-risk way to try za’atar for the first time.
What Owners Say
Owners like that it’s versatile and flavorful. The recurring complaints are that it can taste too salty, that the blend feels less authentic to some, and that value for money is debatable, with a few saying they won’t rebuy.
Pros
- Large 12.5 oz container for frequent cooks
- Flip-top lid with pour or measure options
- Cumin and lemon zest add a different flavor angle
- No added MSG; kosher
Cons
- Some owners find it too salty
- Authenticity is questioned by some
- Value opinions are mixed
- Too much quantity for casual users
Best for: Heavy users and small food businesses Not for: Salt-sensitive cooks and purists seeking a traditional blend
| Brand Name | McCormick Culinary |
|---|---|
| Coin Variety 1 | Cumin,Thyme,Sesame |
| Item Form | Powder |
| Specialty | Kosher |
| Produce Sold As Format | Pre-packaged |
| Region of Origin | North America |
| UPC | 052100050430 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00052100050430 |
| Manufacturer | McCormick & Co., Inc. |
| Container Type | Bottle |
4. The Spice Way Sumac and Za'atar set: hyssop-style two-pack
Verdict: A bundle of pure sumac and a hyssop-based za'atar, ideal if you want a traditional profile and a second spice. Owner data is thin.
This set pairs two 4 oz items: pure salt-free sumac and a za’atar made with hyssop rather than thyme. The seller explains that hyssop is the traditional herb and that thyme is sometimes used when it’s hard to find. If you care about that distinction, this is the clearest match here.
The sumac is a useful extra. Its tart, lemony taste works on salads, dips and meat before cooking, and it’s listed as no salt and no additives. You get a pantry bonus, not just a single blend.
The rating is 4.6, but only 22 reviews back it, and no per-aspect owner sentiment was supplied. That means we can’t say much about freshness or consistency beyond the listing, so treat it with more caution than the top picks.
The listing also makes health claims about hyssop, which we’ve disregarded. Judge it on taste. The container is described as a can, and you’re buying two items, so check that a set suits your needs rather than a single jar.
What Owners Say
There isn’t enough owner sentiment supplied to identify firm praise or complaint patterns. The 4.6 rating is encouraging, but it rests on just 22 reviews, so expect less certainty than with the better-documented picks.
Pros
- Hyssop-based za'atar for a traditional profile
- Includes pure, salt-free sumac
- Two 4 oz items in one purchase
- Strong 4.6 rating
Cons
- Only 22 reviews, so a thin track record
- No owner sentiment data to confirm freshness
- Salt content of the za'atar isn't stated
- Bundle format means less choice if you only want za'atar
Best for: Traditionalists who also want sumac Not for: Buyers who want proven consistency or only one blend
| Brand Name | The Spice Way |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Powder |
| Specialty | Salt Free |
| Container Type | Can |
| Cuisine | Middle Eastern cuisine |
| Set Name | Pure Sumac and Real Zaatar |
| Unit Count | 4 Fluid Ounces |
| Number of Items | 2 |
| Item Weight | 3.95 ounces |
| Number of Pieces | 2 |
5. Roland Foods Za'atar: imported, restaurant-sized two-pack
Verdict: Two 16 oz bottles of imported blend aimed at restaurants and heavy home users. Owners like the flavor, but quality feedback is mixed.
Roland Foods sells this as an imported-from-Israel blend of sesame seeds, sumac and dried herbs. The pack holds two 16 oz bottles, 32 oz in total, which is a lot of za’atar for most households.
The intended use is traditional: over labne, hummus, chicken, beef or seafood. The description positions it as restaurant quality, and the sesame-sumac-herb profile should appeal if you like a classic Levantine mix.
The problem is confidence. With a 4.3 rating from only 47 reviews, it’s the lowest-rated pick, and the supplied feedback says quality gets mixed reviews, with several three-star ratings. Owners do enjoy the flavor, so the complaint seems to be consistency rather than taste.
Given the size, a disappointing batch could mean a lot of unused spice. Unless you cook for a crowd or run a kitchen, a smaller jar from higher in this list is a safer bet. The listing also flags sesame, beef and seafood allergen notes.
What Owners Say
Owners enjoy the flavor of the blend. The main complaint is that quality feels inconsistent, with several three-star reviews. There’s little detail beyond that, so the exact issue isn’t clear from the data.
Pros
- Imported blend of sesame, sumac and herbs
- Very large quantity across two bottles
- Traditional serving suggestions suit labne and hummus
- Owners enjoy the flavor
Cons
- Mixed quality feedback with several three-star reviews
- Lowest rating on this list at 4.3
- Only 47 reviews
- Far too much for casual cooks
Best for: Restaurants and heavy users who want a traditional style Not for: First-timers or anyone wanting a small jar
| Brand Name | Roland Foods |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Seeds |
| Allergen Information | Beef, Seafood, Sesame Seeds |
| Flavor | Za'Atar |
| Container Type | Bottle |
| Cuisine | Middle Eastern |
| Manufacturer | Roland Foods |
| Part Number | 75056 |
| Unit Count | 32 Ounce |
| Number of Items | 2 |
6. Mediterranean Magic: a citrus herb companion, not true za'atar
Verdict: Well-liked and versatile, but it's an orange, chile and mint citrus herb blend rather than za'atar. Buy it as an extra, not a swap.
This Andrew Zimmern collaboration with Badia comes as a pack of three 3 oz jars. It’s a citrus herb seasoning in Mediterranean style, with orange, chile, mint, shallot, garlic and more. That’s a different flavor from sesame, sumac and thyme.
We include it because it shows up in za’atar searches and owners clearly like it. It scores 4.5 from about 270 reviews, and people describe it as flavorful, amazing and good value. It’s used on chicken, shrimp, soups, salads, baked potatoes and baked fish, and one owner says it isn’t too salty.
The caveat is simple: if a recipe calls for za’atar, this won’t replace it. There’s no sesame or sumac in the description, so you lose the nutty, tart character. As a finishing seasoning for grilled meats or scrambled eggs, though, it’s a pleasant addition.
The three-pack also suits gift-giving or sharing, as the listing sits in herb and spice gift categories. Gluten free and kosher are noted.
What Owners Say
Owners praise the flavor, call it versatile across meats, seafood, soups and salads, and consider it good value. There’s no standout complaint in the data. The main issue is category fit: it isn’t really za’atar.
Pros
- Owners call it flavorful and versatile
- Not too salty, according to one owner
- Three jars in one pack
- Gluten free and kosher
Cons
- Not a true za'atar; no sesame or sumac described
- Won't work as a substitute in traditional recipes
- Pack of three may be more than you need
Best for: Cooks who want an all-purpose citrus herb seasoning alongside za'atar Not for: Anyone who needs genuine za'atar flavor
| Brand Name | Badia |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Granule |
| Diet Type | Gluten Free, Kosher |
| Specialty | Kosher, Gluten Free |
| Flavor | Citrus |
| Container Type | Jar |
| Cuisine | Mediterranean |
| Model Number | KHRM00359345 |
| Manufacturer | Badia Spices, Inc. |
| Set Name | Mediterranean Magic |
How They Compare
Badia and Watkins are the two clear leaders. Badia wins on proven reliability and a salt-free formula, while Watkins offers organic certification and the highest rating but a smaller jar and fewer reviews.
McCormick and Roland are volume plays. McCormick has more cumin and lemon character, but some owners find it salty. Roland leans traditional, yet quality feedback is mixed. The Spice Way set suits traditionalists who want hyssop and sumac, while Mediterranean Magic is a handy extra, not a replacement.
What to Look for in a Best Za'Atar
Salt content
Za'atar is often used with salty foods like feta, olives and labneh, so a salt-free or low-salt blend gives more control.
Look for: Clear 'no salt' labeling or a short ingredient list you can read
Avoid: Blends where salt is high on the list if you're seasoning separately
Ingredient profile
Sesame, sumac and an herb (thyme, oregano or hyssop) define the style. Cumin or lemon zest shifts it noticeably.
Look for: Visible sesame seeds and a bright, tangy sumac note
Avoid: Heavy fillers or a blend that's mostly one ingredient if you want balance
Freshness and jar size
Ground herbs fade, so a big container only pays off if you use it quickly.
Look for: A 2 to 4 oz jar unless you cook with za'atar weekly
Avoid: Bulk packs for a first purchase
Allergens and diet labels
Sesame is a core ingredient, so allergy households need to be careful. Halal, kosher or organic marks help others.
Look for: Clear allergen and certification information
Avoid: Assuming any blend is sesame-free
Best Za'Atar Buying Guide
How to choose the best za’atar for your kitchen
Start with how you’ll use it. For sprinkling on hummus, eggs, and flatbread with olive oil, a classic sesame-sumac-thyme blend is ideal. For rubs on chicken or lamb, a bolder mix with cumin or lemon can work well. Picking the best za’atar is mostly about matching style to use.
Check salt and ingredients first
Salt is the biggest variable. Badia’s blend is listed as salt free, while some owners found McCormick too salty. If you’re serving it with feta or labneh, go salt-free and season at the table. If you’re using it as your main seasoning, a lightly salted blend might save you a step.
Also look for real sesame seeds and a tangy sumac note. A few owners say that cheaper-feeling blends are mostly seeds and sumac, which is fine for a topping but can feel thin in a marinade. You can fix that by stirring in dried thyme or oregano.
Match the size to your habits
Ground spices lose punch over time, so smaller jars are usually smarter. Watkins at 2.6 oz and Badia at 4 oz are easy to finish. McCormick’s 12.5 oz and Roland’s two-bottle pack suit restaurants, meal-preppers and big families. If you’re unsure, start small.
Watch for allergens and labels
Sesame is central to za’atar, so it’s not an option for sesame-allergic households. Beyond that, look at the certifications that matter to you: halal, kosher, gluten free, organic or Non-GMO. They vary a lot across these six products.
Know what ‘authentic’ means
Regional recipes differ. Some use hyssop, some use thyme or oregano, and some add cumin or lemon. The Spice Way set emphasizes hyssop, while McCormick leans warm and citrusy. Don’t read too much into the word ‘authentic’. Choose the flavor you actually enjoy.
How We Picked
We compared each product on its listed ingredients, container size, diet and allergen details, overall rating and review count. Then we weighed the patterns in Amazon’s customer sentiment summaries, giving extra credit to recurring praise about freshness and versatility, and penalizing repeated complaints about salt or inconsistent quality.
We did not run lab tests or taste panels. Price was handled as a value judgment against size and features, with thinly reviewed products scored more cautiously than those with thousands of reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is za'atar made of?
Za’atar is a Middle Eastern blend, usually featuring toasted sesame seeds, sumac and a dried herb such as thyme, oregano or hyssop. Some versions add cumin or lemon zest, as in McCormick’s. Salt is common but not universal, and Badia’s blend is listed as salt free.
How do you use za'atar?
The classic method is mixing it with olive oil and spreading it on warm pita. It’s also great on hummus, labneh, eggs, avocado toast, roasted vegetables, chicken and salads. Owners report using it in soups and dressings too, and a little tends to go a long way.
Is za'atar salty?
It depends on the brand. Badia’s version is salt free, so you add salt yourself. Some owners found McCormick’s too salty. Always check the label and taste a pinch first, especially if you’re pairing it with feta, olives or cured foods.
Does za'atar contain sesame?
Most blends do, including Badia, Watkins and Roland, which list sesame as an allergen. If anyone in your household has a sesame allergy, read the label carefully and avoid za’atar unless a product clearly states otherwise.
How long does za'atar stay fresh?
Herbs and ground spices gradually lose aroma, so buy an amount you’ll use within a reasonable time. Keep the jar tightly closed and away from heat and light. If it smells faint or flat, it will taste muted, and replacing it is usually worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
Badia is the easiest recommendation for most cooks, with Watkins close behind for organic buyers. Start with a small jar, learn how salty and herbal you like it, then scale up if you use it weekly.
- Choose Badia for a salt-free, proven all-rounder
- Choose Watkins if organic certification matters
- Save McCormick and Roland for high-volume cooking
The best za’atar for you comes down to salt, sesame and size. Badia is our top pick for its reliability and flexibility, while Watkins is a strong organic alternative. Bulk packs make sense only if you cook with it constantly. Whichever you choose, taste before adding extra salt, and keep the jar sealed for longer-lasting flavor.