Traditional Lebanese Recipes for Every Occasion

Zaatar is the bitter herbs eaten by the Israelites on their flight from Egypt. Zaatar is the Arabic term for thyme and the generic term for a spice blend of thyme, sumac (generally unavailable in the United States), toasted sesame seeds and salt. Zaatar is most often rolled onto Shanklish (an tangy artisan Lebanese cheese),

Pine Nut Sauce (Taratoor bi Snoobar) 1 Garlic clove 1 t Salt 2 Slices white bread -crusts removed and cubed 2 cups Pine Nuts 1⁄4 t Cayenne Pepper Juice of 2 lemons 1 T Olive oil Cover the bread crumbs with warm water for 10 minutes. Squeeze out the excess water. Put Pine Nuts, moistened

2/3 Cup Basil 1/3 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese 1⁄2 Cup Olive Oil 2 T Pine nuts 1⁄2 t Salt 1 clove of Garlic Place all ingredients in a blender, cover and blend on high until sauce is smooth and thoroughly mixed.