Instructions: Toast sesame seeds in small dry skillet set over low heat, stirring a few times, until fragrant and light brown, 6 to 7 minutes. Set aside.

Using mortar and pestle or spice grinder, grind thyme fine. Mix with sesame seeds and salt. Blend with olive oil.

To serve, put small amount on plate and scoop up with bread.

This recipe yields 3/4 cup.

Comments: The ideal thyme for this recipe is the Middle Eastern variety called zatar, which has a wild, resinous aroma. It is rarely sold by itself in Middle Eastern markets but is usually mixed with the sour purple spice sumac (a mixture which itself is confusingly called zatar) - or with toasted sesame seeds for this exact dip. However, many Lebanese prefer more sesame in the mix than the usual store brands have, and you can use any thyme.

Yield: 3/4 cup

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