Dukkah: Egypt's Crunchy Spice Blend

By Chef Liu Wei · October 16, 2026

Dukkah is an Egyptian blend of toasted nuts, seeds, and spices that's meant to be eaten, not just used as seasoning. It's texture and flavor in one spoonful.

Classic Recipe

A basic dukkah combines:

1/2 cup hazelnuts (toasted)
1/4 cup sesame seeds (toasted)
2 tbsp coriander seeds (toasted)
2 tbsp cumin seeds (toasted)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper

Texture Matters

Dukkah should be coarsely crushed, not ground to powder. Use a mortar and pestle or pulse briefly in a food processor. You want distinct pieces of nut and seed.

How to Eat It

The traditional way: dip bread in good olive oil, then press into dukkah. It also works as a crust for fish or chicken, sprinkled over salads, or on roasted vegetables.