Turkish Spice Blend Recipe

So, I recently stumbled upon this magical spice mix that’s pretty much a passport to flavor town—it’s like having Gordon Ramsay and Anthony Bourdain guiding your seasoning choices—but without the plane ticket!

Creating spice blends that showcase the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine is something I love to do. This Turkish spice blend combines the earthy tones of cumin and coriander with the warm paprika, and the tangy brightness of sumac.

I find that the sweet subtlety of cinnamon and the cayenne pepper heat add a delightful balance.

Ingredients

• Cumin: Rich in iron, supports digestion, adds earthy warmth.
• Sumac: Provides a tangy, lemony flavor; rich in antioxidants.
• Mint: Adds fresh aroma; aids in digestion; soothing effect.
• Cinnamon: Sweet, spicy, improves metabolism, rich in antioxidants.
• Allspice: Aromatic, combines cinnamon, nutmeg flavors; supports heart health.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons ground coriander
• 2 tablespoons ground paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground sumac
• 1 tablespoon dried mint
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom

How to Make this

1. Collect all the ingredients, and be sure to have them fresh because that is necessary for the best possible flavor.

2. Begin with a mixing bowl that is both clean and dry; any moisture could compromise the blend.

3. To the bowl, add these spices: 2 tablespoons ground cumin, 2 tablespoons ground coriander, and 2 tablespoons ground paprika.

4. Add 1 tablespoon of ground sumac for a twist that brightens the blend.

5. Incorporate 1 tablespoon of dried mint; crush it slightly with your fingers to release its aroma.

6. Incorporate 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon to impart warmth and sweetness.

7. Add 1 tablespoon of ground allspice for a complex, zesty flavor.

8. Add 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper to provide a subtle kick. This will keep the flavors of the dish balanced.

9. Include 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for heat, or adjust the amount according to your preference for spiciness.

10. Conclude with 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom for a subtle hint of floral complexity. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are completely blended. Keep the spice mixture in a cool, dark place in an airtight container; it should remain fresh for up to 6 months.

Equipment Needed

1. Mixing bowl (clean and dry)
2. Measuring spoons
3. Airtight container

FAQ

• What dishes can I use this Turkish spice blend for?This blend can be used to season meats such as chicken, lamb, or beef; to add flavor to roasted vegetables; or to mix with rice and grain dishes to achieve an authentic Turkish taste.
• How should I store the Turkish spice blend?Keen to hold the mix in a cool and dark place, store it in an airtight container that ensures the ingredients blend together as they should. Care like this means the blend stays fresh and potent for up to six months. Store it like you would paste, in a way that’s convenient but also ensures the mix’s integrity.
• Can I adjust the heat level of the spice blend?Certainly! You have the option to change the heat level by either upping or downing the amount of cayenne pepper in the mix.
• Is there a substitute for ground sumac?Although sumac presents a decidedly unique, tangy flavor, a combination of lemon zest and a touch of salt may serve in its stead as an adequate ingredient. Will the dish taste the same? Not quite. But it will be good.
• What is the purpose of dried mint in the spice blend?Mint that has been dried bestows upon the blend a refreshing note that balances the earthy and spicy flavors present. And these are the flavors that give the blend depth and complexity.
• Is this spice blend gluten-free?All the spices mentioned are naturally gluten-free. However, for those with a serious gluten allergy, it’s best to stick with spices that are certified gluten-free.
• Can the spice blend be used as a rub?This mixture creates an excellent rub for meats when grilling or roasting, giving them the depth of flavor you want. And that flavor, if I haven’t mentioned it before, is packed with the natural oils of the herbs.

Turkish Spice Blend Recipe Substitutions and Variations

For cumin powder, you can substitute by mixing together equal parts of powdered coriander and caraway seeds.
Lemon zest can be used instead of ground sumac to provide a similar tangy flavor.
Instead of dried mint, you can use dried oregano. It will impart a slightly different flavor that is still complementary.
If you lack ground allspice, employ equal parts of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to imitate the flavor.
To substitute for ground cardamom, use a mixture of equal parts ground nutmeg and ground cinnamon.

Pro Tips

1. Toast Before Mixing: Before mixing your spices, consider toasting the cumin, coriander, and paprika in a dry skillet over low heat. This will enhance their flavors and add a depth of taste to the spice blend.