Best mix: Ras el Hanout

Ras el Hanout, meaning "head of the market" (meaning every shopkeep has his own unique blend) It is a premium spice mix used in most North African cooking.. Some say it is similar to curry but I am not convinced of this. There are literally infinite variations. Some of them can contain more than 50 ingredients.

Here's an easy version :

• 1/4 cup cumin seeds
• 3/4 tsp saffron
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 TBS tumeric
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 TBS ground black peppercorns
• 1/2 cup paprika

1. Toast cumin seeds in skillet over medium-low heat for two minutes.
2. Grind with saffron.
3. Add to rest of spices.
4. Store in air-tight container for up to 6 months.