Dukkah: Egyptian Nut and Spice Blend

What Is Dukkah?

Dukkah (دقة) is an Egyptian blend of toasted nuts, seeds, and spices, coarsely ground. It's eaten by dipping bread in olive oil, then into dukkah — a simple but addictive combination.

Traditional Recipe

• 1/2 cup hazelnuts or almonds (toasted)
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted)
• 2 tbsp coriander seeds (toasted)
• 1 tbsp cumin seeds (toasted)
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Coarsely grind everything together — it should be crunchy, not powdery. Don't over-process.

Modern Uses

• Bread dip: Olive oil + dukkah = perfect appetizer
• Salad topping: Sprinkle over roasted vegetables or grain salads
• Crust: Press onto chicken or fish before pan-frying
• Yogurt topping: Sprinkle on labneh or plain yogurt
• Avocado toast: Adds crunch and complexity

Variations

Add pistachios, dried mint, nigella seeds, or sumac for different flavor profiles. Each Egyptian family has their own version.

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