Middle Eastern food consists of delicacies from Bahrain, Cyprus, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Palestine, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
The use of olive oil, meat, and nuts are the characteristics of Middle Eastern cuisine. Middle Eastern cuisine, also known as West Asian or Arab cuisine.
These are the must have spices for Middle Eastern cooking:
Cumin is not only popular in the Middle East but also around the world. This spice is used to add a distinct flavor and smell. Cumin has a strong flavor and taste. It gives Falafel its distinct aroma and taste.
Nutmeg is used to prepare meat. It has a sweet flavor and almost no smell. Nutmeg is used to prepare a spic mix called Ras el Hanout. This spice is used in cooking Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Olives and Preserved Lemon.
Cardamom is the second most expensive spice in the world. India and Egypt are the only producers of cardamom. This Spice is added to Arabic and Turkish coffee and many other beverages to add a unique flavor. And distinct smell.
The green pods are more citrusy, whereas the black ones are a little spicier with anise undertones.
Sumac is made from dried berries. Sumac is known for its beautiful red hue and sour taste. It’s used in cooking meat, stews, and rice dishes. Sumac is a key ingredient in za’atar. Some popular dishes made using it are Lehmejun, griller kabab, and Arabic salad.
Aleppo pepper is a Syrian spice. It has a mild flavor. This pepper is added to food to give it a red color. Aleppo pepper is also added while cooking meat to make it spicy. Lemon Chicken with Orzo is a popular dish made using Aleppo pepper.
Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world. Saffron complements and enhances the tase of rice and seafood. It’s used in cooking Persian tahdig, Spanish-Style Paella and Kulfi.
Fenugreek is an herb that has a nutty, sweet flavor. A touch of this spice enhances the flavor of curries, rice, alads, rice, and meat entrées. Fenugreek is used in cooking Persian kuku sabzi, Spicy Lamb Curry and Fig-Carrot Stuffed Kabocha Squash.
Turmeric is popular used in preparing curries. It’s used in cooking vegetables, seafood, and meat. Turmeric is yellow in color. It has a has a bitter, slightly peppery flavor.
Anise is the most popular middle Eastern spice. It’s used in cooking several dishes. Anise is used in preparing vegetables, seafood, and coffee. It has a flavor that is like licorice or fennel.
Though primarily used in deserts, Allspice is also used in preparing meats, seafoods, broths and sweets. Allspice has a pungent, aromatic flavor. Fasulia is a popular dish prepared using allspice.
Conclusion
These are the most popular Middle Eastern spices. These essential spices will add the extra taste and aroma you’ve been looking for. You can use these spices to experiment with new dishes or to cook traditional delicacies. Have fun cooking!
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