This Middle Eastern-inspired Green Za’atar Beef And Red Pepper Stir-Fry is a combination of ingredients that can be considered a fusion of Middle Eastern and Western cuisines.
The use of za’atar, green za’atar in particular, as thee is also a brown za’atar, like with this Brussels Sprouts With Za’atar & Pomegranate Molasses, firmly roots the dish in Middle Eastern flavors, while the method of stir-frying the beef and vegetables is more typical of Western cooking techniques.
This fusion showcases how traditional flavors can be adapted and enjoyed in various culinary contexts, creating a dish that is both unique and yet familiar.
Each region of the Mediterranean makes their own variation of za’atar. These countries include Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria.
What Is Za’atar
According to The Mediterranean Dish – Za’atar (pronounced Zaah-tar) is most identified with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking.
The Arabic word Za’atar describes the actual herb that’s in the wild thyme family which starts its life looking more like oregano.
The spice blend label Za’atar, typically includes thyme, marjoram, oregano, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt.
It has an earthy, nutty, and slightly tangy flavor profile, with the sumac providing a lemony tartness that brightens dishes.
Traditional Lebanese Za’atar is prepared with Hyssop (the true herb) in place of thyme. With the use of hyssop the seasoning has a more brown color.
Where as green Za’atar (used in this recipe) typically is mixed with thyme, coriander, parsley, oregano and sesame seeds.
Green Za’atar Beef And Red Pepper Stir-Fry
1 pound beef eye round steak, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons za’atar seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame seeds and onion greens for garnishing
Prepare the Beef
Season the thinly sliced beef eye round steak with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of za’atar seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
Cook the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Beef
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the seasoned beef slices in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through.
Combine and Season
Return the cooked onions and bell peppers to the skillet with the beef.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of za’atar over the mixture and toss everything together to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Serve
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds, and chopped green onions, if desired.
This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or warm flat bread.
More Recipes Using The Spice Blend Za’atar
- Middle Eastern-Style Chicken And Sweet Potato Salad With Pomegranate Dressing
- Roasted Za’atar Potatoes Bacon & Green Beans
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