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Middle Eastern Warm Spice Blend 2

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

Middle Eastern Warm Spice Blend 2

Middle Eastern Warm Spice Blend 2 is a staple pantry blend that graces tables across the region, adding depth and warmth to countless dishes. With its roots deeply embedded in Middle Eastern culinary traditions, this blend is commonly used to infuse meats, stews, and even pilafs with its aromatic allure. The spices are often prepared in advance, ensuring that a dash of this blend is never far from reach when a dish needs a touch of comforting warmth.

The blend is a harmonious mix of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, and sea salt, creating a flavor profile that is both sweet and peppery, with a hint of floral notes. Each spice contributes to a symphony of aromas that evoke a sense of homely comfort and warmth. The resulting taste is both bold and balanced, transforming everyday ingredients into something truly special.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbspcinnamon
  • 1 tbspcardamom
  • 1 tspcloves
  • 1 tspblack pepper
  • 1 tspfine sea salt

Method

  1. Begin by selecting a small, dry skillet to toast the spices. Add 2 tbsp cinnamon, 1 tbsp cardamom, 1 tsp cloves, and 1 tsp black pepper to the skillet. Place the skillet over medium heat, and stir the spices continuously with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting. You'll know the spices are ready when their aroma becomes rich and complex, and the cinnamon takes on a slightly darker hue.
  2. Once the spices are toasted, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the spices to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial to prevent any residual heat from affecting the grinding process or altering the flavor profile.
  3. Transfer the cooled spices to a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle. Add 1 tsp fine sea salt to the mixture. Grind the spices until they are finely powdered and evenly combined, ensuring that no large pieces remain.
  4. Once ground, transfer the spice blend to an airtight container. Choose a container that seals well to maintain the freshness and potency of the spices.
  5. Store the container in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. This will help preserve the blend's aroma and flavor.
  6. For the best aroma, use the Middle Eastern Warm Spice Blend 2 within a few months. This blend is perfect for adding depth and warmth to a variety of Middle Eastern 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.

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