Dukkah
Egyptian Nut and Spice Blend
An ancient Egyptian condiment, Dukkah is a fragrant and textural blend of toasted nuts, seeds, and spices. It's traditionally served as a dip for bread, by first dipping the bread in olive oil and then into the dukkah.
🧂 Ingredients
- 100 g Hazelnuts(Raw, skin-on or blanched)
- 3 tbsp Coriander seeds
- 2 tbsp Cumin seeds
- 3 tbsp Sesame seeds(White sesame seeds are standard)
- 1 tsp Salt(Or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground, or to taste)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Watch them closely as they can burn quickly.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 3
While the hazelnuts are toasting, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the coriander seeds and cumin seeds. Toast for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan frequently, until they become aromatic and slightly darker in color. Be careful not to burn them.
⏱️ 2-3 minutes - 4
Add the sesame seeds to the same skillet (no need to clean it). Toast for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from heat immediately.
⏱️ 1-2 minutes - 5
Transfer all the toasted nuts and seeds to a plate or shallow bowl and let them cool completely to room temperature. This is crucial to prevent them from turning into a paste when ground.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 6
Once cooled, place the toasted hazelnuts, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and sesame seeds into a food processor or a mortar and pestle. Add the salt and black pepper.
⏱️ 1 minute - 7
Pulse the mixture in the food processor in short bursts, or pound with the mortar and pestle, until you achieve a coarse, crumbly texture. You want some texture and bite, not a fine powder or paste. Scrape down the sides as needed.
⏱️ 2-3 minutes - 8
Transfer the finished dukkah to an airtight container or jar. It can be stored at room temperature for several weeks. To serve, pour some good quality olive oil into a shallow dish, and sprinkle a generous amount of dukkah into the oil. Dip pieces of crusty bread into the oil and then into the dukkah.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The coarse texture is key to dukkah's appeal. Avoid over-processing into a paste.
- ✓Toast nuts and seeds separately to ensure even cooking, as they have different toasting times.
- ✓Use a mortar and pestle for a more traditional texture, or a food processor for speed and convenience.
- ✓Adjust the salt and pepper to your personal preference.
- ✓Dukkah is incredibly versatile; sprinkle it on salads, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or use it as a crust for fish.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Try using almonds, pistachios, or walnuts instead of or in addition to hazelnuts.
- Add other spices like caraway seeds, fennel seeds, or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate dried herbs like marjoram or thyme for an aromatic twist.