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Cuisine Marrakech

Moroccan · Spice blend

Moroccan Baharat (Warm All-Spice Blend)

Baharat simply means 'spices'. This warm, sweet-savoury all-rounder is darker and pepperier than ras el hanout, built around black pepper, cinnamon and cloves. It is the blend for kefta, rice, meatball tagines and anything that wants a deep, cosy warmth.

Prep
8 min
Cook
3 min
Total
11 min
Serves
16
Level
Easy
Moroccan Baharat (Warm All-Spice Blend)

Ingredients

  • 2 tsp black peppercorns
  • 2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander seeds
  • 1 tbsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tsp ground cardamom

Method

  1. 1

    Toast

    Toast the peppercorns, cumin and coriander in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes until aromatic. Cool briefly.

  2. 2

    Grind

    Grind the toasted seeds to a fine powder.

  3. 3

    Blend

    Combine with the paprika, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and cardamom. Store airtight.

Chef's tips

  • Work a teaspoon into every 500 g of minced meat for kefta or meatballs.
  • A pinch stirred into plain rice with a knob of butter transforms a side dish.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between baharat and ras el hanout?

Baharat is simpler, darker and pepper-driven; ras el hanout is more complex and floral. Baharat suits meat and rice; ras el hanout suits slow tagines and roasts.