Baharat

This is a blend of spices popular in the cuisines of Northern Africa and the Middle East. Like many spice blends there are as many variations as there are cooks. Many versions include a complement of warm spicy flavors from cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, allspice and cardamom, and typically doesn't have any more heat than that of black pepper.  Different versions can include sweet paprika, coriander and cumin, or take a floral twist with the addition of rose petals as is common in Tunisian versions.  An added touch of citrus from dried lemon or black lime is associated with Arabic Baharat. Mint is the distinctive ingredient used in Turkish Baharat.

Like any spice blend, Baharat can be used in a variety of ways; the most straight forward approach is to add it directly to soups, rice, or stewed and braised dishes. The mix can also be combined with oil and fresh herbs to create a paste that makes a nice rub for meats to be roasted or grilled.  A little Baharat mixed into ground beef can add a tasty new dimension to hamburgers.

Many specialty spice retailers sell a Baharat spice mix of their own design, or you can search out some recipes and create your own mix from the spices in your stash.