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Baharat (Lebanese 7-Spice Blend)

lebanese-7spiceFirst, the Arabic word for spices is "baharat". So, we often refer to the Lebanese seven spice mix simply as baharat and use the terms interchangeably. Baharat is sort of like the Indian mix garam masala. Most importantly, 7 Spice is not to be confused with the Japanese seven spice, or shichimi, a totally different combo of spices. Keep in mind, every cook puts a different spin on this traditional Levantine mix. And, while totally essential in recipes like Beef Kafta and Lebanese Stuffed Grape Leaves, it also adds depth to all sorts of grains, and pairs well with dishes like Roasted Butternut Squash Soup.

1 Tbsp. ground allspice
1 Tbsp. ground coriander
1 Tbsp. ground cinnamon
1½ tsp. black pepper, freshly ground
1½ tsp. ground cloves
1½ tsp. ground cumin
1½ tsp. ground nutmeg

Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined.

Store for up to 6 months in a cool dry place.

Makes 40 servings.

Cook's Notes:

Even within the Lebanese community, 7 Spice variations abound between manufacturers and family recipes. Sometimes the mix includes cardamom, paprika, ginger, or fenugreek. Additionally, some cooks roast and grind whole spices. But for convenience, I go with ready-made ground versions for the following:

  • Allspice: Contrary to its name, allspice is not a combination of all spices, but the ground powder of the dried berry of a type of myrtle tree called pimenta dioica. It looks like a peppercorn.
  • Black pepper: If you have a pepper grinder, this is one spice that is really marvelous when freshly ground.
  • Cinnamon: Everyone’s favourite. Some western palates associate it with sweet dishes, but cinnamon has many savoury uses also.
  • Ground cloves: Highly fragrant, cloves come from the flower bud of an Indonesian tree.
  • Coriander: Coriander comes from the ground seeds of the cilantro plant.
  • Cumin: A signature spice of middle eastern cuisine, cumin is the seed of a plant in the parsley family.
  • Nutmeg: The seed of a tropical evergreen tree, whole nutmeg is easy to powderize if you have a Microplane zester.