NineFoods technique guide · Gulf spice blends
Baharat Spice Mix (Gulf Kabsa and Mandi Spice Blend)
Toast gently. Dried lime adds tang. Small batches.
Written by Farwa ZeeshanRecipe developer, NineFoodsBaharat means spices in Arabic, and the Gulf version is the warm blend that seasons kabsa, mandi, machboos and grilled meat. Shop blends vary wildly. This homemade version uses toasted whole spices with dried lime and cardamom for the Saudi and Kuwaiti flavour.
What goes into baharat
Tap a spice to see its role
Warm, aromatic and tangy.
Recipe
Baharat ratios
| Spice | Amount |
|---|---|
| Black pepper | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin | 2 tbsp |
| Coriander | 2 tbsp |
| Cardamom seeds | 1 tbsp |
| Cinnamon | 1 stick |
| Cloves | 1/2 tsp |
| Allspice | 1 tsp |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 |
| Dried lime | 1 to 2 |
| Paprika | 1 tbsp |
Method
How to make it
- Toast whole spices on low for 3 minutes.
- Cool, then grind with the dried lime.
- Mix in paprika and grated nutmeg.
- Use 1.5 to 2 tbsp per kilo of meat.
Compare
Baharat vs garam masala
Both are warm blends, but Gulf baharat is pepper and cardamom forward with dried lime tang, while garam masala relies on black cardamom, cloves and cinnamon and is added at the end. Baharat goes in early, with the meat.
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Quick answers
Baharat Spice Mix FAQ
What is baharat?
An Arabic warm spice blend; the Gulf version seasons kabsa and mandi.
Is baharat spicy?
It is warm from pepper, not chilli hot.
What is bzar?
The Kuwaiti and Emirati version of baharat.
How much baharat per kilo?
1.5 to 2 tablespoons.