This smoky, warm mixture typically includes a basic mix of 7 spices; Coriander, cumin, black pepper, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and paprika, which is why it is also referred to as “Middle Eastern 7 Spice.” With that being said, depending on the region, this spice blend may contain a few extra spices. A quintessential ingredient for Middle Eastern cuisine, cooks use this versatile blend in many different ways, including a dry rub for meat dishes, a seasoning for rice recipes, an addition to soups, and a topping for roasted vegetables. Though ground spices will work wonderfully, you may also use whole spices to give your blend a heartier, more robust flavor profile.
Ground coriander Ground cumin Ground black pepper Ground nutmeg Ground cinnamon Ground cloves Ground cardamom
How to Make Baharat Spice at Home?
Few spice mixes are as simple and flavorful as this baharat seasoning recipe. You only need five minutes and two steps to prepare a mouthwatering blend that’s perfect for all your meals.
In Turkey: For a lighter, earthier Middle Eastern spice mix, I recommend adding herbs like dried mint and oregano. This authentic Turkish blend adds delectably herbal notes that will balance the warmer taste of the other seven spices. And if you are a fan of spicy flavors, you can also add a pinch of Aleppo pepper into the mix. In Palestine: Palestinian bharat spice is a spicier take on the original mix, adding paprika or dried chili peppers. You may also use smoked paprika for a touch of heat should you prefer a richer, smokier profile. North Africa: One of the sweetest variations of the classic recipe, North African cuisine and Egyptian spice blends often include dried rosebuds for a floral, fragrant finish.
If you are using ground spices, simply mix them in a jar and use it right away. If you prefer to take this basic ground spice recipe to the next level by using whole, toasted coriander and cumin, then follow the steps below: To Toast Whole Seeds: To Assemble the Baharat Mix:
Meat rub and kabobs: Effortlessly elevate all your lamb, chicken, seafood, and beef dishes by adding this aromatic Arabic seasoning to your meat, either before or after cooking. This simple seven-spice mix transforms iconic Middle Eastern dishes—like Turkish Kofte, Shish Taouk, and Baked Chicken Kabobs—into five-star meals, and it also works as a delectable finishing spice for other simple weeknight meals, like Chicken Pita Wraps. Soups and stews: If you are looking for the perfect soup seasoning, you have found it. This Middle Eastern seasoning adds immediate depth and complexity to dozens of tasty recipes. Add a tablespoon to iconic dishes, like Eggplant Beef Stew, Slow Cooker Chicken Stew, and Red Lentil Soup, and your mouth will be watering before your first spoonful. Roasted vegetables: There’s no reason why veggies have to be bland. Sprinkle a bit of this baharat spice over your favorite roasted vegetable recipes—like my Whole Roasted Carrots, Roasted Portobello Mushrooms, and Roasted Eggplants—and every bite will burst with smoky, warm flavors. Sauces and marinades: Want to add a touch of savory-sweet flavor to your favorite sauces? Add this Arabic 7 spice to Garlic Butter Sauce for an all-purpose pasta, bread, fish, and steak blend. Or, if you want to prep protein-packed, savory dishes, you can also mix baharat seasoning into delectable marinade recipes like Yogurt Chicken Marinade and Shrimp Marinade. If you want an even simpler way to use it, make a quick marinade by mixing 1 teaspoon of this mixture with ¼ cup olive oil and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Eggs: Top your eggs with this seasoning for a quick, easy, and super flavorful breakfast you can make in minutes.
Storage Tips
The key to ensuring your baharat seasoning remains as robust and flavorful as possible is to store it in an airtight container (such as a glass jar) in a dark place, like a closed pantry. When stored properly, your mixture should remain fresh for up to one year.
Start with whole spices if you can: If you’re serious about making your own spice blend, I highly recommend beginning with whole spices and grinding them at home. This process will ensure your spices are as fresh and fragrant as possible, resulting in a rich mix of delicious ingredients. To enhance your spice game, I also suggest investing in a spice grinder (affiliate link) with a removable bowl, as it’s easy to wash and even easier to use. Get fresh, good-quality spices: You must use fresh, high-quality spices to make this seven-spice blend. Fresh spices have a more potent flavor, resulting in a robust, fully flavored mix that will last longer. Take your time to toast spices: If you have time, I suggest toasting your spices before adding them to your mix. The toasting process helps the spices release their oils, producing a more fragrant, robust flavor. Adjust the recipe as needed: Feel free to adjust the spices in your baharat recipe according to your tastebuds and your unique recipe. If you make changes, I recommend writing them down so that making your own version of this baharat blend is easier in the future. Multiply the recipe: Generally, you’ll only need between one teaspoon and one tablespoon of baharat spice per recipe. However, if you need a larger amount of this spice blend to accommodate a bigger crowd, you may multiply the recipe as needed. Shake the container before using: To help distribute the spices in the mix, shake your storage container before adding the blend to your recipes. This movement will help redistribute spices that have settled in the mixture, giving you a balanced flavor in every teaspoon.
Other Seasoning Blends You Might Also Like
Is your spice cabinet full of spices? Try these other spice blends to add flavor to your food in a quick, easy, and inexpensive way:
Blackened Seasoning Turkey Rub
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