Dukkah is truly a nut lover’s dream come true! This Egyptian nut and spice blend is not only a fantastic seasoning for various dishes but also makes for a delightful snack when paired with olive oil and bread. It’s perfect for dipping and adds a uniquely rich texture and flavor to every bite!

As an avid enthusiast of Middle Eastern cuisine, I have come to adore dishes like Baba Ghanoush and Kibbeh, both of which are immensely popular in my kitchen. But Dukkah? It’s a whole new game changer!

If Dukkah is new to you, get ready for a pleasant surprise! The first time I experienced it, I knew I had to try making it at home. Sure, you can find pre-packaged Dukkah in stores, but believe me when I say, nothing compares to the freshness and customizability of homemade Dukkah. For instance, the amount of cumin used can easily be adjusted to suit your personal taste.

Opting for fresh ingredients ensures that your Dukkah is bursting with flavor. I cannot stress enough how paramount it is to use fresh nuts and spices. Flavor can diminish over time; stale nuts can even take on a rancid taste which is simply unacceptable!

So, treat yourself to some fresh nuts – they make all the difference in your Dukkah! 😊

What is Dukkah?

Dukkah – sometimes spelled as Duqqa, Du’ah, or Do’a – is a flavorful blend of nuts, spices, and sometimes herbs originating from ancient Egypt. The region was an important hub for numerous spices, which explains the variety of flavors found in traditional Dukkah.

This seasoning has been loved by both the common folk and the Pharaohs, making it an artisanal blend that varies across families and vendors. In Cairo, you can find packaged Dukkah sold in simple paper cones. In the United States, it’s available at places like Trader Joe’s and specialty spice shops, thanks to its rising popularity through culinary shows.

What does Dukkah mean?

The name “Dukkah” is derived from the Arabic term meaning “to pound” or “to crush”. Traditionally, Dukkah was prepared using a mortar and pestle, though most people today find it more convenient to use a food processor!

Ingredients

To whip up a delicious Dukkah, you will need:

• Nuts: A must-have! Traditional recipes often include hazelnuts, but I like to mix it up with a combination of hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts, and pistachios.
• Sesame Seeds: Use white sesame seeds, either toasted yourself or pre-toasted ones will work too!
• Spices: You’ll need coriander seeds and cumin seeds for traditional flavors. You can also add paprika for an extra kick if you like.
• Salt: Depending on your nuts, you may want some salt to enhance the overall flavor.

My Shopping Experience

When trying to source my ingredients, I found a great selection at a local service. Buying nuts can be a gamble at the grocery store – sometimes they’re fresh, other times not so much. But thanks to the ease of online shopping, I was able to get exactly what I needed for my Dukkah.

Shopping online allows you not only to find different types of fresh nuts but also gourmet items! Everything I ordered arrived perfectly packed. It’s reassuring to know that these services take extra steps to ensure quality.

How to make Dukkah

Making your own Dukkah is a fun and simple process! Just toast the nuts and seeds, then grind them up in a food processor – it’s that easy! If you’re feeling adventurous, use a mortar and pestle for a more traditional method.

This recipe aims to make a nice batch of Dukkah, but feel free to adjust the quantity as you see fit!

Step 1: Toast the nuts and seeds

• Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Spread your raw nuts and seeds out on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 5-8 minutes or until they smell fragrant. Once done, set them aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Dukkah!

• In a food processor, add your cooled toasted nuts and seeds along with all the remaining ingredients.
• Pulse the mixture until it reaches a coarse texture. Be sure not to over-process it – you want it to be chunky, not turn into a powder or nut butter!

How to eat Dukkah

Traditionally, Dukkah is enjoyed with warm bread (like pita) dipped in olive oil, then in the Dukkah. It’s absolutely delicious!

You can also incorporate it into a Middle Eastern-inspired cheese board, complete with olives, fresh fruit, and yogurt.

Once you taste Dukkah, it’s likely you’ll want to sprinkle it on just about everything! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Over hummus, labneh, soups, or salads.
• As a crust for meats like chicken, beef, or fish.
• Toss it with roasted vegetables.
• Use it as a topping for baked goods.