Exotic North African Spice Blend – Ras El Hanout
Unlock the vibrant flavors of North African cuisine with this aromatic Ras El Hanout spice blend! This delightful mix is an essential ingredient for numerous Tagines, Couscous, and other traditional recipes. Crafted with care, this homemade version brings together a harmonious medley of spices commonly found in kitchens around the world, perfect for those who may not have access to the original blend of up to 50 exotic spices. Our recipe slightly favors the yellow variant of Ras El Hanout, celebrated for its warm and fragrant profile. The spices in this mix are chosen not only for their unique properties but also for their ability to enhance the culinary experience with aromatic flavors rather than heat—ideal for any dish where you wish to invoke the spirit of North Africa. Packed in an airtight container, this blend remains fresh for months, ready to elevate your cooking with its enchanting aromas.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground cinnamon
3 teaspoons (None)
ground cumin
3 teaspoons (None)
ground turmeric
3 teaspoons (None)
ground coriander
2 teaspoons (None)
ground ginger
2 teaspoons (None)
ground cardamom
2 teaspoons (None)
ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon (None)
ground cloves
1 teaspoon (None)
mace
1 teaspoon (None)
cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon (None)
garlic powder
1 teaspoon (None)
ground celery seed
1 teaspoon (None)
ground black pepper
1 teaspoon (None)
cornflour
2 teaspoons (None)
dried crushed rose petal
1 teaspoon (None)
nigella seeds
1 teaspoon (None)
anise seed
1/2 teaspoon (None)
powdered saffron
1/4 teaspoon (None)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the listed spices thoroughly until well mixed.
2
Transfer the spice mix into an airtight container, preferably made of dark glass or tin to minimize light exposure.
3
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for optimal freshness and flavor.
4
Use this versatile spice blend generously in Moroccan and North African dishes, including Tagines and Couscous; it also works wonderfully in preservation recipes.
5
Keep in mind that the added cornflour acts as a stabilizer in the spice mix, helping to prolong its shelf life.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ras El Hanout?
Ras El Hanout is a complex and aromatic North African spice blend used as a foundational ingredient in Moroccan cuisine for dishes like tagines and couscous.
What does the name Ras El Hanout mean?
The name literally translates to "head of the shop," implying it is a mixture of the best spices a merchant has to offer.
How many ingredients are in this Ras El Hanout recipe?
This specific homemade version features a harmonious medley of 18 different spices and ingredients.
Is this spice blend very hot or spicy?
No, this blend is designed to be aromatic and fragrant rather than hot, making it ideal for dishes where you want deep flavor without intense heat.
Why is cornflour included in the spice mix?
Cornflour acts as a stabilizer in the spice mix, which helps to prolong its shelf life and keep the powders from clumping.
How should I store my homemade Ras El Hanout?
Store the blend in an airtight container, preferably made of dark glass or tin, in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
How long will this spice blend remain fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this spice blend will remain fresh and aromatic for several months.
What dishes can I use Ras El Hanout in?
It is perfect for Moroccan Tagines, Couscous, roasted meats, and can even be used in traditional preservation recipes.
What is the flavor profile of the yellow variant of Ras El Hanout?
The yellow variant is celebrated for its warm, fragrant, and earthy profile, heavily influenced by turmeric and cumin.
Can I use this recipe if I don't have access to exotic spice markets?
Yes, this recipe is specifically crafted using spices commonly found in most kitchens or grocery stores to replicate the exotic flavor profile.
What are nigella seeds?
Nigella seeds are small black seeds that add a slightly bitter, onion-like flavor and a unique visual element to the spice blend.
Do I need to cook the spices before mixing?
No, you simply combine all the ground spices in a large mixing bowl until they are thoroughly blended.
Why is dark glass or tin recommended for storage?
Dark glass or tin minimizes light exposure, which protects the volatile oils in the spices from degrading and losing flavor.
What role do rose petals play in the recipe?
Dried crushed rose petals add a subtle floral note and traditional North African complexity to the aromatic profile.
Is there saffron in this Ras El Hanout?
Yes, this recipe includes 1/4 teaspoon of powdered saffron to provide its distinctive luxury aroma and color.
What is mace in this recipe?
Mace is the reddish outer covering of the nutmeg seed; it has a flavor similar to nutmeg but is more delicate and peppery.
Does this blend contain any salt?
No, this specific recipe does not include salt, allowing you to season your final dish to your own preference.
Is this spice mix gluten-free?
The ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but you should ensure your cornflour is certified gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.
Can I add more cayenne pepper if I want it hot?
Yes, while the recipe is designed for aroma over heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper to suit your personal heat tolerance.
Can I use whole spices and grind them myself?
Absolutely, grinding whole spices fresh will result in an even more potent and flavorful Ras El Hanout blend.
What is the benefit of adding cardamom and cloves?
Cardamom and cloves provide sweet, spicy, and cooling undertones that balance the earthier spices like cumin and turmeric.
Can I use this as a dry rub for grilling?
Yes, it works excellently as a dry rub for lamb, chicken, or even roasted vegetables like cauliflower.
Is anise seed essential for the blend?
Anise seed provides a faint licorice sweetness that is traditional in many North African blends, though it is only a small portion of the recipe.
How much spice mix does this recipe produce?
Based on the measurements provided, it produces roughly 1/2 cup of spice blend, enough for several large meals.
What is the purpose of ground celery seed?
Ground celery seed adds a savory, slightly bitter concentrated vegetable flavor that enhances the overall complexity of the mix.
Is this a vegan-friendly recipe?
Yes, this spice blend consists entirely of plant-based spices and is suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets.
Why is turmeric a major component?
Turmeric provides the signature yellow color of this specific Ras El Hanout variant and offers a mild, earthy base flavor.
Can I omit the rose petals if I don't have them?
Yes, you can omit them; the blend will still be very flavorful, though it will lack the specific floral finish found in authentic versions.
Does Ras El Hanout contain garlic?
This specific recipe includes 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to add a savory depth that complements North African cooking styles.
How do I use this in preservation recipes?
You can add the spice blend to pickling brines or oil-based preserves to infuse them with North African flavors.