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Seven Spice Blend

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

Seven Spice Blend

The Seven Spice Blend is a cornerstone of Lebanese cooking, deeply rooted in dishes like kibbeh and hearty stews. Its origins trace back to the vibrant, spice-laden markets of the Levant, where each vendor offers a unique twist on this aromatic staple. Used throughout the year, this blend is a beloved addition to both everyday meals and festive gatherings, bringing warmth and depth to the Lebanese table.

This spice mix marries the earthiness of allspice with the sweet notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, rounded out by the bite of black pepper and cloves. The fine sea salt ties it all together, creating a harmonious balance that elevates the flavors of meat and vegetable dishes alike. A pinch of this blend transforms a simple stew into a comforting, aromatic experience.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbspallspice
  • 1 tbspcinnamon
  • 1 tbspblack pepper
  • 1 tbspnutmeg
  • 1 tbspfine sea salt
  • 1 tspcloves

Method

  1. Begin by gathering your spices: 2 tablespoons of allspice, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of fine sea salt, and 1 teaspoon of cloves. Use a small, dry skillet to toast the spices. Place the skillet over medium-low heat to ensure even toasting without burning.
  2. Add the allspice, cinnamon, black pepper, nutmeg, and cloves to the skillet. Stir the spices continuously with a wooden spoon to prevent them from sticking or burning. You'll know they're ready when the spices release a warm, aromatic fragrance, and the color deepens slightly.
  3. Once the spices are toasted, remove the skillet from the heat and let them cool completely. This step is crucial as grinding hot spices can lead to clumping and uneven texture.
  4. After the spices have cooled, transfer them to a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Grind them until you achieve a fine, even consistency. If using a mortar and pestle, take your time to ensure all the spices are well combined.
  5. Once ground, add the fine sea salt to the spice mixture. Stir or grind briefly to incorporate the salt evenly throughout the blend.
  6. Transfer the Seven Spice Blend to an airtight container. Ensure the container is clean and dry to prevent any moisture from affecting the spices.
  7. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, to maintain the blend's potency. For the best aroma and flavor, aim to use the blend within a few months.
Cover of Authentic Lebanese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Lebanese Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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