Baharat – spice mix from the Levant

Baharat is one of those spice blends for which it was not so easy to create a recipe. I consulted my family, did some research and tried it out.

When I want to give a dish the spice of the Levant, I always fall back on a handful of spices that I often use anyway. For me, these were the basis to which I added a few more flavors.

What is baharat?

Baharat spice is an Arabic spice mixture, also known as Lebanese spice or 7 spice, because it usually consists of 7 different spices. Translated from Arabic, baharat means spice.

Similar to curry, Chinese 5 Spice or Ras el Hanout, there is no standard mixture. Every mixture is different because every family has its own recipe. The same applies to the manufacturers.

Alongside ras el hanout, dukkah and za’atar, baharat 7 spice is one of the most important spice blends in the Levant.

What does the Arabic spice mix taste like?

The aroma of the blend is slightly spicy, strong and has a warm note. It goes perfectly with fish, meat and vegetables. The flavors are particularly effective in stews or marinades.

When you smell it, the fragrance immediately transports you to the spicy cuisine of the Levant – try it!

Which spices are used in the spice mix?

During my research and consultation with my family, I came across different spices for the Seven Spice. However, there are a handful of spices that are found in almost every blend.

Cumin, coriander, nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice and cloves are found in most dishes. Then add or replace as desired, e.g. with pepper, ginger, paprika, turmeric or cardamom.

You will need the following ingredients for this baharat recipe:

• Cumin seeds
• Coriander seeds
• Carnations
• Allspice
• Paprika powder
• Cinnamon stick
• Nutmeg

As I said, if you don’t like one of the spices, you can simply leave it out or replace it. Pay attention to the interplay of spicy and warm flavors.

How to make baharat

For a particularly aromatic blend, you should make sure the spices are of good quality. And how do you find out whether spices are of high quality or not? The simplest trick is to smell them. The more intense the aroma, the better and fresher the quality. The color also plays a role; it should be intense but also natural.

Unfortunately, high-quality spices always cost a little more. The best example: saffron. It is the most expensive spice in the world. If you get a full jar somewhere for 5 euros, then be sure that it’s not real saffron.

Once you have all the spices together, all you need is a pan and a spice grinder or mortar. Because I use unground spices for my mixture.

1. All spices except paprika powder and nutmeg are roasted in a pan.

2. Allow the spices to cool and then grind or mortar them finely.

3. Then simply pack the baharat spice mix in an airtight container.

You can find the exact instructions below in the recipe card. And if this is too time-consuming for you, you can also use ground spices and mix them together. This is the quick and easy option.

What is the shelf life of the spices?

The seasoning mix should be stored in a dry and cool place. It will keep for approx. 6-12 months and is aromatic. Spices lose their aroma and color over time. If your baharat no longer smells or tastes good, throw it straight in the bin.

What can the spice mix be used for?

You can use baharat in any recipe, even in sweet creations or drinks such as mocha.

The Arabic spice mix is highly recommended for barbecue marinades or stews. Kabsa, musakhan or chicken shawarma use all the spices that you can easily replace with the mixture.

Put together your own spice mix and try it out in the next recipes! Have fun and enjoy it.

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Recipe for Baharat