What is Lebanese Seven Spice?

What is it?

How do you use it? Where do you buy it or can you make it? Some family members have asked the same questions. This author did not know what it was named or exactly what went into it. Chris shared this wonderful blog about it. She does an excellent job answering these questions for us.

I absolutely echo her sentiments from this section of her blog:

Even within the Lebanese community, 7 Spice variations abound between manufacturers and family recipes. Sometimes the mix includes cardamom, paprika, ginger, or fenugreek. Additionally, some cooks roast and grind whole spices.

https://feelgoodfoodie.net/recipe/how-to-make-7-spice/

Nader Family Sentiments About Seven Spice

During our months in Kuwait we ate our meals in the hotel dining room and, by choice, started each dinner with a red lentil version of this soup. Finally after weeks of this, the waiter said, “You know, that is what they feed the prisoners in jail.” I suggest a squeeze of lemon.

Paul S.

I have used the Lebanese 7-spice blend in my lentils & believe it turns a cardboard-flavored dish into a delicious one.

Charlotte K.

For fun I bought some spice blends... for variety instead or in addition to the allspice, cinnamon or cumin called for in Lebanese recipes, I have been subbing them in, including in kibbee. The two I use are Baharat and Lebanese Seven Spice. They are blends of spices like those above plus coriander, cloves, nutmeg, paprika, cardamom, black pepper

Paul S.

You can find seven spice blend in your local speciality market or if you're lucky in your regular grocery store. Of course, I encourage you to make your own for whatever satisfies your tastes.