The distinct flavor of Middle Eastern spices is what, arguably, sets Middle Eastern cuisine apart from the rest. Read on to learn more about some of the most popular herbs and spices in this cuisine, along with some recipes to get you started.
Middle Eastern Spices: Our Top Picks
Cumin
Cumin is one of the most popular spices used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It's a powerful, highly fragrant, savory spice that derives from the dried seed of the herb Cuminum cyminum, a member of the parsley family. If you're wondering what you could whip up with this one, it's a staple in falafel. You can give it a try by using this Falafel recipe from The Spruce Eats. It's a labor-intensive dish that takes a long time. So, if you're new to cooking, try this cumin-based rice with eggplant and peppers. It's a savory dish with a delectable nutty flavor that's sure to please!
Turmeric
Turmeric, a ground spice with a pepper flavor and an orange-based color, is a common ingredient in Middle Eastern meat and vegetable recipes. For a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine, try a simple turmeric rice recipe. This dish is a variation of Shawarma, and it only requires basic ingredients like salt, olive oil, onions, basmati rice, pine nuts, raisins, water, and turmeric.
Sumac
Sumac has an intense reddish, purple color; it's sour and citrusy. Because of its color and citrus taste, it is often used as a topping on pita chips. You can also put the spice in shish kebabs. Try this one from all recipes, as it derives from a Lebanese restaurant. It offers more of a traditional taste. You can pair it with rice pilaf or a salad. If you want to try the spice on the side, then consider sumac onions. You must cut some onions and add lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, and sumac. Add some red pepper for a spicy kick.
Bahārāt
Bahārāt, or Arabic for spices, is more than just a blend. It's a cultural symbol, a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East. This aromatic blend, often referred to as Arabic 7-Spice Mix, is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. It combines the warmth of nutmeg and cinnamon, the earthiness of cumin and coriander, and the kick of peppercorn and paprika.
Variations are common. For instance, Turkish baharat may include dried mint, while the Tunisian version may feature rosebuds and cinnamon.
There are different ways you can incorporate baharat into your cooking. First, you can use it as a seasoning for your meat, especially if you want to make kofte-inspired meatballs or Chicken. Check out this great recipe Grilled Moroccan Spiced Chicken if you want something simple but different. The second: you can use it as a dry rub for your lamb, Chicken, or beef. Add it to vegetables before roasting. The third: add baharat to your marinade. Olive oil, salt, lemon juice, and baharat may be used to make grilled Chicken, shrimp, and a range of other similar dishes.
Anise Seed
Anise seeds are derived from anise plants native to the Mediterranean region. Anise actually derives from the same plant family as parsley and celery. The tiny seeds are oval-shaped, sweet, fruity, and taste like licorice.
While seeds are used in cooking, you can also use powder. If you are trying to decide what to use, the general rule is to go with the whole seeds to add texture to the dish.
Are you wondering how to cook with this spice? There are many options. You might want to consider adding it to your sauces, or you can add it to your spice blend if you are making fish, Chicken, or meat. Here's a great recipe for Chicken with Moroccan spices.
It's also a great choice if you try it with a dessert. Anise seeds are most often used in Italian biscotti. Still, you can also use it as a unique flavor to cook pie dough (add 1/2 teaspoon of seeds before forming the dough), pie fillings, or bread.
Allspice
Allspice is made from the dried berries of the plant Pimenta Dioica. It's not a blend of spices; it is just one spice, but it got its name because of its nuances and flavor profile. It tastes like a combination of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg, hence the name 'all' for all the spices it tastes like. It's often known as Jamaica Pepper or pimento.
Allspice has a powerful and aromatic flavor. It is an indispensable ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine and is most often used to flavor a range of dishes, from stews to meat dishes to tomato sauces and desserts.
Try whipping up some fasulia if you want to make a simple, traditional dish using this spice. fasulia is a heaty, slow cooked dish of beans in seasoned tomato sauce that is generally served with beef or lamb. The protein, however, can be omitted and it’s still great.
Other dishes that this spice commonly features include Yahweh. Find the recipe here: an onion and ground beef mixture often used as a stuffing. You can also use it in kofte meatballs or topping for dips like hummus or rice.
Try adding the spice to your sweets. Some have recommended adding a pinch to cookies, cakes, puddings, and even in your oatmeal in the morning for a different flavor. Feel free to try something new, as this spice adds a level of depth and complexity to any dish!
Middle Eastern Spices
Now that you've been introduced to the vibrant world of Middle Eastern spices, it's time to embark on your own culinary adventure. Whether it's cumin, turmeric, sumac, or Baharat, don't be afraid to experiment and share your creations. We'd love to hear about your unique twists and turns in the comments below, creating a community of spice enthusiasts.
Keyword: Middle Eastern spices
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