Herbs and spices mixes you may not be familiar with
As our nation’s palate widens you may have noticed a huge array of herb and spice blends that more traditional cooks have no idea what to do with.
This week we will take a look at some of them and then our recipes for the month with include them .
Ras el Hanout
The mixture usually consists of over a dozen spices, in different proportions. Commonly used ingredients include cardamom, cumin, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, allspice, dry ginger, chilli peppers, coriander seed, peppercorn, sweet and hot paprika, fenugreek, and dry turmeric. It gives pungent, warm flavour. The cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg also add sweet accents.
How can I use it?
Since it's a blend, it's convenient to use in marinades, as a rub, as a seasoning in many dishes like stews and tajines, and as a condiment since you only have to measure out one thing. And many people add it to the breakfast dish Shakshuka.
Is Ras el Hanout good for you?
The spices used in Ras el Hanout contain health-boosting compounds like: Vitamins, Coriander is a great source of vitamin C, a nutrient lacking in most other spices. Other vitamins found in Ras el Hanout include niacin and thiamine from cardamom and vitamin A from cinnamon.
Harrisa
Harissa (pronounced ha-RISS-uh) is a North African (possibly Moroccan) It's commonly made from roasted or dried chilli peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices (usually coriander, cumin, caraway, mint, and sometimes rose petals). It's an incredibly versatile condiment. This can be found as either a paste or in a dried form
How can I use it?
For pretty much anything! Mix Harissa with grains or couscous. One of the most popular ways to use Harissa is to season a couscous with it. Use some for roasting vegetables. Rub it into your meat for roasting.
Is Harissa good for you?
Harissa contains capsaicin that can reduce blood pressure. Capsaicin is a chemical compound that gives spice to chilli. - Harissa consumption may reduce inflammations, an important trigger for heart issues. - Peppers that are used for harissa help relieve osteoarthritis, rheumatism and also colds.
Sumac
The sumac bush, native to the Middle East, produces deep red berries, which are dried and ground into coarse powder. Ground sumac is a versatile spice with a tangy lemony flavour, although more balanced and less tart than lemon juice. A small sprinkle also adds a beautiful pop of colour to any dish.
How can I use it?
It's used in everything from dry rubs, marinades, and dressing. But its best use is sprinkled over food before serving. It pairs well with vegetables, grilled lamb, chicken and fish.
Is sumac spice good for you?
Sumac is one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory spices out there. It ranks high on the ORAC chart, which means it's packed with antioxidants and has the ability to neutralize free radicals that can cause cancer, heart disease, and signs of aging. Sumac is also a beneficial ingredient for those with type 2 diabetes.
Za’atar
Za'atar as a prepared condiment is generally made with ground dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, or some combination, mixed with toasted sesame seeds, and salt, though other spices such as sumac might also be added. Some varieties also include roasted flour.
The woodsy, herbal, citrusy spice blend from the Middle East is lovely to eat; Za'atar is a harmony of herb, sesame seed and sumac. It has a deep red colour and delightfully tart and tannic taste.
How can I use it?
Za'atar makes an excellent spice blend for flavouring roasted and sautéed veggies, breads and meats. Use it to flavour chickpeas—simply heat olive oil in a pan, and once shimmering, add Za’atar, cooked chickpeas, and salt.
Is Za’atar good for health?
These medical and food uses of thymol and carvacrol essential oils support the enduring health heritage of Za’atar herb in the Levant countries. It is believed that those health benefits include helping immune system, mental focus, increased energy, digestion, and reducing infection risks.
Dukkah
Dukkah is an Egyptian dry mix of roasted nuts, seeds and spices finely blended together. The exact ingredients vary from recipe to recipe, though most have several items in common like sesame, cumin and nuts. Bold flavour profile that can complement a wide range of foods. The combined spices and nuts provide a tanginess and mild heat. In addition, Dukkah has a pleasing crunchy texture because of the nuts it contains.
How can I use it?
It can be used for truly anything, from creating a crispy coating on fish to acting as magic seasoning dust for a fried egg. Traditionally dukkah is eaten by dipping fresh Egyptian bread first into olive oil and then into the nut mixture, but it also serves as a versatile seasoning in Egyptian cooking.
Is Dukkah good for you?
The zesty spice is also good for your health, providing calcium, fibre, and magnesium via the sesame seeds, and protein, essential fats, and antioxidants from the nuts.