What’s hot on the spice scene
When it comes to recreating an authentic dish or giving a traditional recipe an added kick, spices are the essential tools of the trade. HN asked three industry leaders for their take on what they expect to see livening up our food, going forward
Nicolas Abou Fayssal
CEO Gardenia Companies
Europe is currently witnessing a return to authentic, natural flavors, such as hibiscus flowers, juniper berries and pure orange extract. Which flavors are trending in the Middle East today?
Several flavors currently trending in the Middle East fall into the authentic and natural category. Cardamom, cinnamon, cumin, black pepper, coriander, mahleb and nutmeg are among those that spring to mind.
Which continental or exotic spices do you think are gaining a foothold on the Middle East’s culinary landscape?
Popular European and world spice mixes, such as fajita and Philadelphia spices, and crispy and escalope mixes, have now become an established part of Middle Eastern cuisine.
With chefs today exploring spice fusion, which blends are trending in the Middle East?
The region’s favorite spice combinations, including shawarma, shish tawoook, kebbe, remain as popular as ever, with many now also being incorporated into European cuisines.
How are suppliers adapting to consumers’ evolving taste?
Along with our usual supplies, we also produce spice mixes by special request at our factory for several international clients and restaurants.
What factors should be considered when buying spices?
When buying raw materials to make our blends, we would be looking to ensure they’re completely free of moisture and toxins such as aflatoxin and bacteria like E. coli.
Wissam Jammoul
CEO
Rafic Marrouche Restaurants Company
Europe is currently witnessing a return to authentic, natural flavors, such as hibiscus flowers, juniper berries and pure orange extract. Which flavors are trending in the Middle East today?
We’ve noticed that cardamom, nutmeg and bay leaves are generating newfound interest.
Which continental or exotic spices do you think are gaining a foothold on the Middle East’s culinary landscape?
Blends of ground spices from the Indian subcontinent, such as garam masala and curry, together with chili, are among those finding their way into dishes on mainstream menus.
With chefs today exploring spice fusion, which blends are trending in the Middle East?
Chefs have begun reinventing traditional local dishes by infusing them with until-now unfamiliar spices and ingredients. Examples of these include: kunafa with coconut, za’atar-spiced meatballs; and za’atar egg salad.
Which varieties are the ones to watch?
We expect to see an increase in use of turmeric, cinnamon and Greek fennel.
What factors should be considered when buying spices?
The flavor they will bring to a dish is the most important consideration.
Which pre-mixed spices are proving popular?
Favorites from our 25 varieties of pre-mixed spices, which are all halal-certified and include, are:
1. Foul Mix
2. Falafel Mix
3. Shawarma Mix (Meat)
4. Shawarma Mix (Chicken)
5. Chicken Tawook Mix
6. Chicken Tawook Mix (Spicy)
7. Fish Mix
8. Whole Chicken Mix
9. Hamburger Mix
10. Kabseh Chicken Mix
11. Mloukhiye Mix
12. Potato Mix
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