If you've spotted Baharat seasoning in the spice aisle and wondered, “What is Baharat?” you're not alone.
Baharat is a warm, aromatic Middle Eastern spice blend used to bring rich flavor to everything from meats and roasted vegetables to rice, soups and stews.
But what exactly is in Baharat? What does it taste like? Is it spicy? And—most importantly—what do you actually do with it?
Here's an easy introduction to this incredibly versatile spice blend.
What Is Baharat?
Baharat is a Middle Eastern spice blend used to season a variety of savory foods.
The word baharat means “spices” in Arabic, which is fitting because Baharat typically combines several warm, aromatic spices into one blend.
There isn't one universal Baharat recipe. The exact combination can vary depending on the region, family recipe or spice maker.
Our Organic Baharat Seasoning at Life Essentials Refillery combines 10 organic spices and botanicals for a warm, savory blend with subtle sweetness and floral notes.
What Is in Baharat?
Baharat recipes vary, but you'll commonly find warm and aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, allspice and black pepper.
Our Organic Baharat Seasoning contains:
- Organic coriander
- Organic cumin
- Organic black pepper
- Organic cinnamon
- Organic cardamom
- Organic allspice
- Organic cloves
- Organic ginger
- Organic rose petals
- Organic nutmeg
The rose petals are an especially interesting part of our blend, adding a subtle floral element alongside the warmer spices.
What Does Baharat Taste Like?
Baharat tastes warm, earthy, aromatic and savory with subtle sweet and floral notes.
It has layers of flavor rather than one spice dominating the entire blend.
Cumin and coriander create an earthy foundation. Cinnamon, cardamom, allspice, cloves and nutmeg contribute warmth and aroma. Black pepper provides some bite, while rose petals bring a subtle floral note.
If you've never tried Baharat before, don't think of it as simply “hot.”
Think warm, fragrant and complex.
Is Baharat Spicy?
Baharat is definitely spiced, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's spicy-hot.
Our blend contains black pepper, but it doesn't rely on hot chile peppers for its flavor.
If you're expecting the heat of cayenne or a chile-heavy seasoning, Baharat is quite different.
Its appeal comes primarily from its combination of warm, earthy and aromatic spices.
What Is Baharat Seasoning Used For?
One of the best things about Baharat is its versatility.
You can use Baharat spice with:
- Lamb
- Chicken
- Beef
- Fish and seafood
- Roasted vegetables
- Root vegetables
- Winter squash
- Chickpeas
- Lentils
- Rice
- Other grains
- Soups
- Stews
- Marinades
- Sauces
It's especially handy when you want to add several layers of spice without pulling five or six individual jars out of the cabinet.
How Do You Use Baharat Seasoning?
There isn't just one way to use Baharat.
You can rub it onto meat before cooking, toss it with vegetables before roasting, stir it into soups and stews or use it to season rice and grain dishes.
You can also combine Baharat with olive oil to create a simple seasoning mixture for vegetables or proteins.
If it's your first time using Baharat, start small, taste and add more as needed.
Easy Baharat Roasted Vegetables
If you've never cooked with Baharat before, roasted vegetables are one of the easiest ways to try it.
Ingredients
- 1 lb vegetables of your choice
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1–2 teaspoons Baharat seasoning
- Salt to taste
Cauliflower, carrots, sweet potatoes and squash are all great choices.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Cut the vegetables into similarly sized pieces.
Toss with olive oil, Baharat seasoning and salt.
Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast until browned and tender, turning as needed. Cooking time will vary depending on the vegetables and size of the pieces.
That's it.
You now have an easy side dish that also gives you a chance to learn what Baharat actually tastes like.
Easy Baharat Chickpeas
Want another simple option?
Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas. Dry them well, then toss with a little olive oil, Baharat and salt.
Roast at 425°F until they're browned and crisp, stirring occasionally.
Serve them as a snack, add them to salads or use them in grain bowls.
How Do You Use Baharat With Rice?
Baharat's warm spices also work beautifully with rice and other grains.
Try adding a small amount while cooking or seasoning your finished dish.
You can then build a meal around it with roasted vegetables, chickpeas, lentils or your favorite protein.
Because different Baharat blends have different flavor profiles, start conservatively and adjust to your taste.
Baharat vs. Za'atar: Are They the Same?
No. Baharat and za'atar are different Middle Eastern seasoning blends.
Baharat generally focuses on warm spices such as cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom and allspice.
Za'atar typically has a very different flavor profile and commonly includes herbs along with ingredients such as sesame and sumac.
Both deserve a spot in a well-stocked spice cabinet, but you shouldn't expect them to taste the same.
What Can I Substitute for Baharat?
Because Baharat is a blend rather than a single spice, there isn't one perfect substitute.
If a recipe calls for Baharat and you don't have it, you can experiment with some of the individual spices commonly found in the blend, such as cumin, coriander, black pepper, cinnamon, cardamom and allspice.
But the easiest solution?
Keep a little Baharat on hand.
That's especially easy when you can buy exactly the amount you need.
Why Buy Baharat in Bulk?
Maybe you found one recipe that calls for Baharat and aren't sure whether you'll use it again.
You don't need to buy a huge jar.
At Life Essentials Refillery, you can choose bulk Baharat by weight, a jar or a refill for a spice jar you already own.
Try a little first.
If you discover it's your new favorite seasoning, come back for more.
That's the beauty of shopping spices by weight.
Where Can I Buy Baharat Seasoning in Tampa?
Looking for Baharat spice in Tampa?
You can find Organic Baharat Seasoning at:
Life Essentials Refillery
4317 W El Prado Blvd
Tampa, FL 33629
Choose from bulk, jar and refill options, or order online.
→ Shop Organic Baharat Seasoning
The Bottom Line
So, what is Baharat?
It's a warm, aromatic Middle Eastern spice blend that can make an ordinary meal much more interesting.
Our blend combines coriander, cumin, black pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, allspice, cloves, ginger, rose petals and nutmeg for a flavor that's earthy, savory, subtly sweet and floral.
Use it on roasted vegetables. Toss it with chickpeas. Add it to rice. Try it in soups or marinades.
And if you've never tasted Baharat before, buying a small amount by weight is an easy way to start experimenting.