Khmeli Suneli (Georgian)

georgian-khmelisuneli Khmeli suneli, also known as Georgian five spice, is a savory seasoning mix that is at once spicy, aromatic and nutty. Its aroma and taste make it suitable for almost any dish: sauces, salads, soups, stews, savoury pastry, rice, any kind of protein, as well as pickled vegetables, marinades and Georgian appetizers.

1 tsp. ground fenugreek
1 tsp. dried thyme
1 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. dried basil
1 tsp. dried dill
1 tsp. ground bay leaf
1 tsp. dried celery
1 tsp. dried peppermint
1 tsp. dried parsley
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 pinch red chili pepper
3 threads dark red saffron, freshly ground

Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl or a jar and stir well.

Makes 10 servings.

Cook's Notes:

Khmeli suneli is not hot but spicy, aromatic, nutty and fragrant that makes it a perfect addition to a variety of dishes, including sauces (tkemali), salads, soups, stews, savory pastry, rice, any kind of protein, as well as pickled vegetables, marinades and Georgian appetizers like eggplant rolls with walnuts.
If your herbs are too coarse, use a coffee grinder to grind them.
Store chmeli suneli in an airtight glass jar and keep away from sunlight and heat.
It will last for up to 6 months until the flavors start to fade.
This recipe makes about 60 grams or ¼ cup. Double the amounts to make a bigger batch.

Variations:

For the simplified version of khmeli suneli use the following ingredients: fenugreek, thyme, coriander, basil, dill, bay leaf, dried celery, peppermint, marjoram, parsley, savory (or oregano), red chili pepper and saffron.

Serving Suggestions:

This versatile spice blend can be used just about anywhere! Let the Georgian spices boost the flavor of your favorite dishes.
It can be your new taco seasoning, garam masala, Chinese five spice, za'atar or Ras el Hanout because you very well might be tempted to put it in every dish you cook.
The herbs in this dish not only give their flavor and taste, but also make this seasoning a very good body remedy. It even plays a role in traditional Georgian medicine.
Herbs are often appreciated for their flavor profiles and their health benefits are too often overlooked and under appreciated.
It's believed that the substances contained inside the herbs can remove physical fatigue, improve mood and muscle tone, protect against viruses and infections, strengthen the immune system and help maintain good physical shape, when used in reasonable quantities.
This is, perhaps, why it's often used in soups and stews in the winter months and is now often associated with comfort foods as well as elegant dishes. You can try it on your tempeh, use it in hearty soups like borscht, or sprinkle it on your favorite Buddha bowl.
How To Make & Store Your Georgian Five Spice Blend
To get the best flavor, you'll make your spice blend from herbs that are as fresh and aromatic as possible and grind them together. Check this khmeli suneli web story to see how to make it.
In order to retain the fresh flavor, be sure to store your Chmeli Suneli in an airtight glass jar.
Keep it away from sunlight and heat.
It will last weeks up to several months with its flavors still strong this way.