Ras el Hanout is a North African spice mixture that literally translates as “Top of the Shop.” Each spice merchant will have his own unique Ras el Hanout blend containing his best spices. Our blend has a mixed flavor profile of floral and spicy, silky and aromatic. It is turmeric based, with aromatics of nutmeg, clove, ginger, cardamom, sweet cinnamon and allspice. Birds eye chilies give it a bit of heat. Pink rose petals and lavender flowers add a delicate balance. Ras el Hanout is wonderful in rice or couscous dishes, as a meat or fish rub, as a stew spice and is amazing in an array of tagine dishes. It is also delicious in lentils. North Africa was pretty much the end of the spice road from the orient, and Ras el Hanout incorporates ingredients from across Asia, India, Persia, and the Mediterranean.

Photo by Katie Webster