baharat aka middle east mixed spices. The real mix

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup whole black peppercorn
• 1/4 cup whole coriander seed
• 1/4 cup cassia or cinnamon bark
• 1/4 cup whole cloves
• 1/3 cup cumin seed
• 2 teaspoons whole cardamom seeds
• 4 whole whole nutmegs
• 1/2 cup ground paprika

Directions

1. 1

   Basically, just place all the spices except the paprika and nutmeg in a blender or adequate grinder and process until it becomes a powder.

2. 2

   If necessary you can grind 1/2 cup at a time.

3. 3

   Grate the nutmeg and blend this with the paprika into the spices.

4. 4

   Store in an airtight jar.

5. 5

   Generally in some areas, they lightly toast the spices in an oven to bring out more flavor.

6. 6

   You can gain this also by putting the amount you're going to use, on a hot dry frypan and toast it for a few seconds before using.

7. 7

   This not only makes the kitchen smell good, but brings out a richer flavor of any spice.

8. 8

   *Note* You can also use ground spices, but using them whole is the authentic way.

9. 9

   Four nutmegs come to about 1/4 cup ground.

10. 10

    Be careful how much nutmeg you use; it's toxic in large doses.