This means something akin to "top shelf" in Arabic, and no two are
alike. This was adapted from a recipe I found online a while back. I was trying to make
Moroccan lamb stew
and couldn't find find the spice mix ready-made in any stores nearby.
This is what I settled on, based on which ingredients that I happened to have
on hand or could easily find. Note that this means it's missing some
more common ingredients, like mace. Feel free to add those back in if
you have a source!
⅓½⅔¾1×1.5×2×3×4×
Ingredients
Steps
Place any pre-ground ingredients (if you bought them ground) into one
small bowl. If grating whole nutmeg, grate it into this
bowl as well.
Place any whole ingredients into a dry frying pan (plain stainless steel is best).
Heat over medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, or until you can strongly
smell the spices, tossing occasionally.
Transfer toasted whole ingredients to a spice grinder. If you have an
electric coffee grinder, this works great! Otherwise, stretch out the
forearms, grab a mortar and pestle, and prepare for a workout. Grind the
whole, toasted spices until fine, then combine with the pre-ground
ingredients. Stir until mixed.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place and use as needed.
Use sparingly! Usually a few tablespoons is plenty, even for large meals.
