Top Commonly Used Middle Eastern Spices and Herbs

Cumin

Cumin is probably the most prevalent of the Middle Eastern spices as well as being one of the most popular in the world. It's a strong, highly fragrant savory spice and is key to the unmistakable aroma and taste of falafel. Try it in this Classic Falafel recipe.

Nutmeg

In Western countries, nutmeg is used primarily in desserts. However, in the Middle East, its sweet earthiness is used in savory applications, such as meat dishes, too.

The perfect addition in Ras el Hanout, nutmeg shines through in this Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Olives and Preserved Lemons.

Cardamom

Cardamom is used in many beverages. It is primarily used ground; however, the pods are sometimes used, too. The green pods are more citrusy, whereas the black ones are a little spicier with anise undertones. Cardamom gives Arabic and Turkish coffee its distinct flavor.

Turmeric

Turmeric is found mostly in meat and vegetable recipes. It is usually used in ground form and has a bitter, slightly peppery flavor.

Turmeric lends an orangey-yellow hue and earthy flavor to the Iranian classic Havij Polow Ba Morgh (Braised Saffron Chicken and Rice).

Sumac

Sumac is sour and is sometimes substituted for lemons in recipes.

Because of its citrus-like taste, sumac is a lovely addition to toppings such as on these Za'atar Pita Chips.

Bahārāt

Bahārāt means spices in Arabic and it refers to a combination of spices whose exact blend can differ by country and region (and sometimes even by household). Usually, the blend includes black pepper, cardamom, cumin, cloves, coriander, cinnamon, nutmeg, and paprika. You can purchase a blend called "sebah baharat" (which translates to seven spices) in gourmet or specialty food stores or online.

Baharat is often the blend that's responsible for a touch of sweet, smoky flavor in dishes such as this Spiced Beef on Hummus.

Caraway

Caraway offers a slightly earthy yet sweet flavor with a hint of dill. Caraway is used in spicier dishes found in North African cuisine.

While most people are likely to think of caraway seeds as an ingredient in bread baking, it provides a lot of flavor in this spicy Homemade Harissa.

Anise Seed

Anise seed is one of the world's oldest spices. It is popular in sweets and has many medicinal purposes.

With its distinct licorice flavor, anise is a popular ingredient in breads, such as these Moroccan Krachel (Sweet Rolls with Anise and Sesame).

Allspice

Allspice is used in many types of food, not just desserts. You will find it is used to flavor meats and stews, as well as sweets.

With its powerful but highly aromatic flavor, a touch of allspice adds so much to this Fasulia (Green Bean and Beef Stew) recipe.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is prized around the world, and is often associated with sweet desserts such as apple pie. However, it's a common addition to a shawarma spice blend. Check out this recipe for Chickpea Shawarma to see cinnamon used in this savory application.