Baharat

Baharat is a warm, aromatic Middle Eastern spice blend whose name simply means “spices” in Arabic. Common versions combine black pepper, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and cardamom, though ratios and ingredients vary by region and household. The blend is fragrant rather than fiery, leaning sweet-spicy and peppery with subtle smokiness from paprika when included.

Used across the Levant, the Gulf, and parts of Turkey, baharat is an all-purpose seasoning for meats, vegetables, grains, and legumes. It shines as a dry rub for grilling and roasting, blooms beautifully in oil to flavor stews and sauces, and adds depth to rice, pilafs, and soups. Most blends are salt-free, allowing flexible seasoning to taste.