Dukka Spice

A traditional Egyptian blend of toasted nuts, seeds and spices, coarse enough to crunch. Almonds and walnuts make the hearty base, sesame adds a toasty aroma, and sumac and Aleppo pepper cut the richness with sourness and a mild fruity warmth.

Cumin and fennel contribute warm, earthy and subtly sweet undertones, black pepper a gentle heat, and smoked paprika a soft smoky depth. Every ingredient is gently toasted before blending, which is where the aroma comes from.

How to use it

Serve it the classic way, in a bowl beside good olive oil for dipping bread, or sprinkle it over roasted vegetables, chicken and fish. It also stirs into dips and spreads, and makes a coarse crust pressed onto fish fillets before roasting. Technique tip: add it at the end rather than during cooking. The nuts are already toasted, and a second round of heat pushes them into bitterness.

The shaker jar

The jar option is packed in a clear 8 oz shaker jar made from lightweight, food-safe PET, so the colour and texture of the blend are visible at a glance. As this is a coarse blend, it is best spooned out: simply unscrew the cap, and the wide mouth takes a teaspoon with ease. A pressure-sensitive liner seals the jar until first use, and the fitted flip-top cap keeps the blend fresh between uses. Once empty, the jar is easy to refill and makes a practical home for dried herbs, salt or any finely ground spice, where the three-hole sifter cap gives an even sprinkle. Hand wash only.

Details

Also known as

Duqqa, Egyptian Spice Blend, Daqa, دُقَّة