Dukkah: A Flavorful Egyptian Nut and Spice Blend
Dukkah is a vibrant Egyptian mixture of nuts and spices that introduces an exciting flavor profile and a delightful crunch to various savory dishes. This unique condiment can be likened to a more exotic twist on the popular Everything but the Bagel Seasoning. Lately, its popularity has surged, making it possible to find Dukkah in grocery stores nearby.
I stumbled across a jar of Dukkah during a visit to Target while exploring the spice aisle. The appealing colors grabbed my attention, and the combination of nuts and spices piqued my curiosity. Noticing the inclusion of sesame seeds, I pondered whether it might resemble Everything but the Bagel Seasoning. However, I soon realized that the spices utilized in Dukkah have a distinctly Mediterranean flair. Since that moment, I have enjoyed enhancing simple snacks like cream cheese or cottage cheese on crackers with Dukkah, as well as incorporating it into my avocado toast.
Dukkah recipes abound, with each family in Egypt customizing their version with different ingredient proportions and choices of nuts. Common ingredients found in a traditional Dukkah recipe include:
- A mix of nuts: hazelnuts are the most prevalent, although some recipes use almonds or pistachios, and walnuts can appear from time to time.
- Sesame seeds
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt
What sets MY recipe apart?
While I still have some Dukkah from that store-bought jar, I endeavored to create my own version to share as gifts with family and friends. Naturally, I included a personal twist. Though the Dukkah from Target is fantastic, I have a strong inclination towards garlic, which led me to incorporate it into my blend. Additionally, I decided to add a hint of lime alongside the lemony essence of coriander. A sprinkle of Tajin – a zesty Mexican chile lime seasoning – made its way into my mixture, along with a touch of smoked paprika for that irresistible sweet and smoky flavor.
Can you envision the explosion of flavors in this blend?
I genuinely prefer my homemade Dukkah over the store-bought option. For a Christmas gift, I shared a jar with my best friend, whose delighted reaction was priceless. After sprinkling some Dukkah into her palm to taste, her face radiated joy. She then roamed around, inviting family members to sample it as well. Many were eager to try, expressing immediate enthusiasm. We exchanged ideas about various applications for Dukkah, with one person questioning its compatibility with avocado toast. My affirmative response led another guest to suggest using it on cheesy garlic toast – what a delightful idea!
Dukkah Preparation
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup shelled pistachios or hazelnuts
– 1/4 cup almonds
– 3 tablespoons cashews
– 1/4 cup white sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon minced dried garlic (optional)
– 1 tablespoon Tajin (optional)
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander
– 1 teaspoon cayenne (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Flaked sea salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Begin by toasting the nuts and sesame seeds separately.
2. In a mini food processor, combine all ingredients and pulse until the nuts are finely chopped but not turned into powder.
Notes:
– Avoid over-processing; Dukkah should retain small, recognizable nut pieces.
– Store any leftovers in the fridge or freezer for longevity.
– Toasting the nuts and sesame seeds can be done in a dry skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven, depending on your preference.
How to Use Dukkah
Now, you might be wondering how to incorporate Dukkah into your culinary repertoire. There are countless ways to elevate a dish with this delightful seasoning!
- The traditional method involves mixing Dukkah with olive oil for a bread dipping experience.
- Sprinkle it on avocado toast (as previously mentioned).
- Use it on cheesy garlic bread or various crostinis.
- Enhance your eggs, whether scrambled, fried, poached, or in deviled format.
- Add Dukkah to steamed or roasted vegetables like cauliflower, squash, or broccolini.
- Incorporate it as a crispy coating for meats or mix it into ground meat to amp up flavor in burgers.
- Go gourmet with buttery roasted mushrooms sprinkled with Dukkah.
- Elevate your sandwich game by adding it atop mayonnaise or tomatoes.
If you’re looking for even more serving suggestions, consider these:
- As a topping for salads, especially panzanella, or sprinkled into soups for added zest.
- Brighten up baked potatoes, gratin, or sweet potatoes with Dukkah.
- Create savory parfaits by layering Greek yogurt or cottage cheese with fresh vegetables and a sprinkle of Dukkah.
- Try it with bean-based dishes, including hummus and curries like eggplant chickpea curry or creamy korma.
- Elevate grilled feta cheese paired with preserved lemons and Dukkah.
- Some adventurous eaters even enjoy Dukkah on freshly cooked or raw fruits.
With all these enticing ideas, Dukkah is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
