Hawaij (Yemeni)

Hawaij spice (also known as Hawayej, Hawaj and Hawayij) means "mixture" in Arabic. It's a spice blend with primarily cumin and black pepper and often contains cardamom, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger and cloves. There are two primary blends of hawaij - one for savoury dishes and one used in coffee and desserts. Hawaij is primarily used in Yemeni and Israeli cuisine. The savoury mixture is often used in soups, curry dishes and rubs on meat. The mixture for coffee and desserts can be used in cakes and other baked goods.

¼ cup cumin seeds
¼ cup whole black peppercorns
3 Tbsp. ground turmeric
1 Tbsp. ground coriander seeds
1 Tbsp. green cardamom pods
1 tsp. whole cloves

Heat a small frying pan over low heat.

Combine all the spices in the pan and stir to combine. Let toast for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Grind the toasted spices in a spice mill or with a mortar and pestle.

Save in an airtight container for up to a month.