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Baharat Spice Mix

Serves about 1/2 cup Spice Mix vegan, Spice Mixes

Baharat Spice Mix

Baharat is a traditional spice mix that finds its roots across the Middle East, with each region adding its unique touch. It's a versatile blend, often used to elevate the flavors of stews and rice dishes, making them a staple on tables from Lebanon to Turkey. This aromatic mix can transform even the simplest ingredients into a feast, often appearing in meals that mark both ordinary days and special occasions.

The taste of Baharat is a warm embrace of spices, with the deep, sweet notes of allspice and cinnamon weaving through the robust bite of black pepper and coriander. A hint of nutmeg adds a subtle earthiness, while fine sea salt ties the flavors together, creating a harmonious and balanced profile. This blend should wrap your dishes in a comforting warmth, inviting every bite to be savored.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbspallspice
  • 1 tbspcinnamon
  • 1 tbspblack pepper
  • 1 tbspcoriander
  • 1 tbspfine sea salt
  • 1 tspnutmeg

Method

  1. Place a small, dry skillet over medium-low heat. Add 2 tablespoons of allspice, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of coriander, and 1 teaspoon of nutmeg to the skillet. Stir the spices gently with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting. You'll know they're ready when the spices release a warm, rich aroma, and the allspice and coriander seeds take on a slightly darker hue.
  2. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the spices to cool completely in the pan. This cooling step is crucial as it prevents moisture from forming when you grind them, which could lead to clumping and uneven mixing.
  3. Once the spices are cool, transfer them to a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Grind them to a fine, even powder. If using a mortar and pestle, work in small batches to ensure a consistent texture.
  4. Combine the ground spices with 1 tablespoon of fine sea salt in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure the salt is evenly distributed throughout the spice blend.
  5. Transfer the Baharat spice mix to an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, to preserve its aroma and flavor.
  6. For optimal taste, use the Baharat spice mix within a few months. Its warm, complex flavor is perfect for enhancing the depth of stews and rice dishes.
Cover of Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Middle Eastern volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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