Baharat: The Essential Middle East Blend

By Nora Kim · October 18, 2026

What Is Baharat?

Baharat is the Arabic word for "spices" and refers to a warm, aromatic blend central to Middle Eastern cooking from Lebanon to Iraq to Turkey.

Core Ingredients

Black pepper
Coriander
Cinnamon
Cloves
Cumin
Cardamom
Nutmeg
Paprika

Regional Differences

Iraqi baharat adds dried lime (loomi) for a tart note. Lebanese versions may include allspice and rose petals. Turkish baharat often features mint and oregano alongside the warm spices.

Common Uses

Rubbed on lamb before grilling
Added to rice pilafs and stuffed vegetables
Seasoning for kofta (meatballs)
Mixed into hummus and lentil soups

Home Blend Recipe

Toast equal parts black peppercorns, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds with half-parts cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Grind and mix with paprika and nutmeg. Store for up to 3 months.