سبعة بهارات

Sab'a Baharat

📍 Lebanese Mountains 🍽 Condiments ⏱ Easy

Lebanese seven spice: the foundational spice blend that seasons Lebanese rice, stuffings, soups, and meat dishes. Warming, aromatic, sweet-spicy — distinctly Lebanese in its balance.

Sab'a baharat ("seven spices") is the Lebanese equivalent of a curry blend — a composite that every cook adjusts to their taste and that every family keeps in a jar at all times. The exact seven spices vary by region and family, but the core is consistent: allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, coriander, and cloves, with nutmeg and ginger completing the seven. Lebanese seven spice is markedly different from Arabic baharat found in the Gulf — Lebanese is sweeter and more cinnamon-forward. It is the spice behind the aroma of Lebanon: it perfumes stuffed grape leaves, riz 3a djaj, kafta, and every pot of Lebanese chicken soup.

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All 214 Sofra recipes are free in the app. This one includes step-by-step English voice narration, hands-free Cooking Mode, and the original oud music by Charbel Rouhana.

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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Measure all spices into a small bowl.
  2. Mix thoroughly with a spoon until completely combined.
  3. Store in a sealed glass jar away from light and heat.
  4. Use within 6 months for best fragrance.
  5. Use 1 tsp per serving of rice stuffing, meat mixture, or soup.

Hear every step read aloud

Step-by-step voice narration guides you hands-free. Faten's Idlib recipes carry her own Syrian-Arabic narration. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sab'a Baharat?

Lebanese seven spice: the foundational spice blend that seasons Lebanese rice, stuffings, soups, and meat dishes. Warming, aromatic, sweet-spicy — distinctly Lebanese in its balance.

Where is Sab'a Baharat from?

Sab'a Baharat comes from Lebanese Mountains. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.

Is Sab'a Baharat vegetarian or vegan?

As written, Sab'a Baharat uses only plant-based ingredients, so it is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. Always double-check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.

What can I use instead of allspice (ground) in Sab'a Baharat?

The allspice (ground) called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Sab'a Baharat its authentic character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.

What do I serve with Sab'a Baharat?

In a Lebanese condiments spread, Sab'a Baharat is served as an accompaniment — spooned alongside grilled meats, vegetables, breads, or other mezze dishes.

Can I make Sab'a Baharat ahead, and how do I store leftovers?

Yes — leftovers keep well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat gently (or bring to room temperature for cold dishes) and taste to adjust seasoning before serving. Dishes with fresh herbs or dressing are freshest the day they are made.