Syrian Baharat

Syrian Baharat Recipe - Aromatic Spice Blend from Syria

Region / culture: Syria | Servings: 1

Introduction

Syrian Baharat is a flavorful spice blend commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It adds depth and complexity to dishes, making them more aromatic and delicious.

History

Baharat has been used in Syrian cooking for centuries, with each family having their own unique blend of spices. It is often used in meat dishes, stews, and rice pilafs to enhance the flavor profile.

Ingredients

2 tbsp black peppercorns
2 tbsp allspice berries
1 tsp ground cinnamon
0.5 tsp freshly grated nutmeg

How to prepare

Grind the peppercorns and allspice berries using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Transfer the mixture to a small bowl.
Add the cinnamon and nutmeg, and mix well.
Store the mixture in an airtight container.

Variations

You can customize your Baharat blend by adding other spices such as cloves, cardamom, or paprika for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When using Baharat in your cooking, start with a small amount and adjust to taste. It can be quite potent, so a little goes a long way. Toasting the spices before grinding can also enhance their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Use Baharat to season grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even sprinkle it on hummus for an extra kick of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the whole spices before grinding can enhance the flavor of the Baharat blend.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have allspice berries, you can substitute with ground allspice. You can also adjust the amount of each spice to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make a large batch of Baharat and store it in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

Presentation Ideas

Transfer the Baharat blend to a decorative spice jar or tin for a beautiful presentation in your kitchen.

Pairing Recommendations

Baharat pairs well with lamb, chicken, rice dishes, and grilled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the Baharat blend in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It does not need to be refrigerated. Simply sprinkle it on your dishes as needed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 20 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 2g per serving

Fats

Fats: 1g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Baharat is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.

Summary

Baharat is a low-calorie spice blend that adds flavor without adding extra calories.

Summary

Syrian Baharat is a versatile spice blend that can elevate your dishes with its aromatic and flavorful profile. Experiment with different variations and enjoy the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Syrian Baharat. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Syria. My grandmother, may she rest in peace, was the one who first introduced me to the wonderful world of cooking.

She had a special talent for creating delicious dishes with just a few simple ingredients. I would watch her in awe as she effortlessly whipped up meals that were not only tasty, but also filled the house with the most enticing aromas.

One day, as she was preparing a traditional Syrian feast for our family, I noticed her reaching for a small tin of spices that I had never seen before. Curious, I asked her what she was using and she smiled and told me about the magical blend known as Baharat.

Baharat, she explained, was a fragrant spice mix that was commonly used in Middle Eastern cooking. It was a versatile blend, perfect for adding depth and flavor to a wide variety of dishes. My grandmother had learned how to make it from her own mother, who had passed down the recipe through generations.

As she carefully measured out each spice and mixed them together, I watched intently, committing every step to memory. The warm, earthy scent that filled the air as she toasted the spices made my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the Baharat was ready, she generously sprinkled it over the lamb she was preparing for our meal. The rich aroma of the spices mingled with the savory scent of the meat, creating a tantalizing combination that made my stomach growl with hunger.

As we sat down to eat, the flavors of the Baharat-infused lamb danced on my taste buds, awakening a newfound love for the culinary arts within me. From that day on, I knew that I wanted to learn everything I could about cooking and the magical world of spices.

Over the years, I have collected countless recipes and learned from many talented cooks and chefs. But the memory of that day with my grandmother, creating Baharat together, has always held a special place in my heart.

To this day, whenever I make Syrian Baharat, I am transported back to that small village kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of home. I like to think that my grandmother is looking down on me, proud of the passion for cooking that she helped ignite within me.

And so, every time I sprinkle a pinch of Baharat into a dish, I do it with love and gratitude for the woman who taught me the true joy of cooking. My grandmother's legacy lives on in every recipe I create, but none more so than in that magical blend of spices that first captured my heart – Syrian Baharat.