Jibneh bil Za'atar w Zayt
Cheese with Za'atar and Olive Oil Platter
Yes, keto as served. About 3g net carbs per serving, lower than 8 in 10 Syrian dishes.
What it is
A simple yet iconic mezze platter featuring a block of firm Syrian cheese (such as Akkawi or Nabulsi, often lightly brined) generously drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with aromatic za'atar spice blend. Served without bread.
Key ingredients
Akkawi or Nabulsi cheese, extra virgin olive oil, za'atar spice blend (thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, salt).
Optional tweaks
Ensure no bread or pita is served alongside. Request extra olive oil.
Say this to the waiter (Arabic)
جبنة بالزعتر والزيت من فضلك بدون خبز أو خبز بيتا، ومع زيت زيتون إضافي.
For the Jibneh bil Za'atar w Zayt, please serve without bread or pita. I'd like extra olive oil.
Watch out for
Some za'atar blends may contain small amounts of flour or wheat; confirm with the restaurant if extremely sensitive. Hidden sugars in some cheap za'atar blends.
Macros are estimates for a typical serving and vary by restaurant. Confirm ingredients with staff, especially if you have allergies. Our ingredient lists are generated automatically and describe how a dish is typically made.