Middle Eastern Spice Blends: A Complete Guide to Top 5 Must-Know Mixes

Name	Main Ingredients	Flavor Profile	Best For
Za'atar	Oregano, sumac, sesame seeds, thyme, salt	Tangy, earthy, with a hint of nuttiness	Rubbing on flatbreads, mixing into dips, sprinkling over roasted veggies
Advieh	Rose petals, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove	Floral, sweet-spicy	Simmering stews, rice dishes, dessert baking
Baharat	Black pepper, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cloves	Earthy, complex, slightly sweet	Meat marinades, lentil soups, braised dishes
Dukkah	Nuts (hazelnuts, pistachios), sesame seeds, coriander, cumin, salt	Nutty, aromatic, textured	Dipping olive oil-soaked bread, coating fish or chicken
Harissa	Smoked chili peppers, garlic, caraway, coriander, olive oil

Spice Mix	Best Pairings	Ideal Occasions
Za'atar	Hummus, labneh, falafel, avocado toast, grilled zucchini	Weekend brunch, healthy snacks, mezze platters
Advieh	Rice pilafs, slow-cooked lamb, fruit compotes, baked apples	Dinner parties, cozy nights, festive meals
Baharat	Chicken kebabs, lentil soup, spiced quinoa bowls	Family dinners, meal prep, hearty lunches
Dukkah	EVOO-dipped bread, salmon crusted with dukkah, avocado slices	Appetizers, breakfast boards, luxury bites
Harissa	Grilled eggplant, couscous, tomato-based stews, spicy mayo	Summer BBQs, fusion recipes, late-night cravings

Brand	Mix Type	Features	Who It's For	Price Range
Zayna Spices	Za'atar	Lebanese-style blend with high-quality oregano and sumac	Home cooks looking for authenticity	$9–$12/jar
Kalustyan's	Advieh	Hand-blended with real rose petals and organic spices	Chefs seeking premium quality	$14–$18/jar
The Spice Garden	Baharat	Versatile blend with balanced warming spices	Beginners and daily home users	$7–$10/jar
Moroccan Gold	Dukkah	Contains pistachio and hazelnut for rich flavor	Fans of gourmet snacking and dipping	$11–$15/jar
Lou Ana	Harissa	Available in paste and powder form; smoky, fiery punch	Heat lovers and North African cuisine fans	$6–$10/tube