Ras El Hanout Recipe (Moroccan Spice Powder)
Introduction
Ras El Hanout is a quintessential Moroccan spice blend that translates to “head of the shop,” referring to the best spices a seller has to offer. This aromatic and versatile mix is a staple in Moroccan cuisine, used to add depth and flavor to tagines, soups, stews, and even grilled dishes. By making it at home, you can tailor it to suit your palate and ensure maximum freshness.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through preparing this exotic spice powder right in your kitchen. Let’s bring the magic of Moroccan flavors to your pantry!
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Value (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 2-inch piece | 19 calories, 4.8g carbohydrates |
| Cloves (Laung) | 10 | 6 calories, 1.4g carbohydrates |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 10 | 30 calories, 6.1g carbohydrates |
| Coriander (Dhania) Seeds | 1 tablespoon | 15 calories, 2.7g carbohydrates |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 tablespoon | 22 calories, 2.6g protein |
| Paprika Powder | 2 tablespoons | 38 calories, 7.4g carbohydrates |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 2 teaspoons | 12 calories, 2.6g carbohydrates |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1½ teaspoons | 15 calories, 1.5g protein |
| Mace Powder (or grated mace) | ½ teaspoon | 11 calories, 1.0g carbohydrates |
| Red Chili Flakes | 1 teaspoon | 5 calories, 0.3g protein |
| Nutmeg Powder (grated nutmeg) | ½ teaspoon | 12 calories, 1.1g carbohydrates |
| Fennel Seeds (Saunf) | 1 tablespoon | 20 calories, 3.0g carbohydrates |
| Dry Ginger Powder | 1 tablespoon | 18 calories, 0.4g protein |
| Star Anise (grated) | 1 teaspoon | 10 calories, 2.0g carbohydrates |
| Dried Rose Petals (optional) | Few petals | Negligible calories |
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Teaspoon (Approx.) | 5 calories | 0.1g | 1.0g | 0.1g |
Preparation & Cooking Time
| Preparation Steps | Time |
|---|---|
| Ingredient Preparation | 15 minutes |
| Roasting & Blending | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by gathering all the spices listed in the ingredients. Ensure they are clean, dry, and free from impurities. |
| 2 | Heat a kadai (or a heavy-bottomed pan) over medium heat. Dry roast each spice separately until aromatic. Be cautious not to brown or burn them. |
| 3 | Allow the spices to release their oils naturally during roasting. For instance, the cinnamon stick will emit a sweet, woody fragrance when ready. |
| 4 | Once roasted, immediately remove each spice from the pan to avoid over-toasting. Place them on a large plate or tray to cool completely. |
| 5 | After cooling, transfer the roasted spices to a high-powered blender or spice grinder. |
| 6 | Add the remaining powdered ingredients (turmeric, paprika, dry ginger powder, mace powder, nutmeg powder, chili flakes, and rose petals). |
| 7 | Blend the mixture until it forms a fine, uniform powder. If desired, sift the blend to remove any larger particles for a smoother texture. |
| 8 | Store the Ras El Hanout spice blend in a clean, dry, airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness. |
| 9 | Use as needed to season meats, vegetables, stews, soups, or as a rub for grilling. Enjoy the authentic flavors of Moroccan cuisine in your meals! |
Tips for Best Results
- Spice Quality: Always use fresh and high-quality spices to ensure the most vibrant flavor.
- Roasting Tips: Pay close attention during the roasting process—slightly warming the spices is enough to release their oils.
- Customization: Adjust the quantity of chili flakes or omit them entirely for a milder spice blend.
- Storage: Proper storage in an airtight jar prolongs the blend’s shelf life, maintaining its potency for up to six months.
- Usage: Pair Ras El Hanout with olive oil and lemon juice for a quick marinade or mix it into couscous for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Ras El Hanout can elevate any dish, from spiced roasted vegetables to fragrant Moroccan lamb tagines. Sprinkle it over warm, buttered couscous or add it to soups and stews for a hint of exotic warmth. This versatile spice blend also pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
Why Make Ras El Hanout at Home?
Crafting Ras El Hanout at home allows you to control the intensity and balance of flavors while ensuring there are no additives or preservatives. It’s an inexpensive way to enjoy authentic Moroccan spices in your cooking and adds a personal touch to your culinary creations.
Embrace the warmth, aroma, and depth of Moroccan cuisine with this simple yet flavorful spice blend. Bon appétit—or as they say in Morocco, Besseha wa Raha!
