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the soul of every arab kitchen lies in the comforting aroma of a spice that brings generations of a family together, and one blend in particular that you can count on finding in every arab mom's pantry comes to mind. this is a blend that spans across the region and is known by a variety of names, but is lovingly called shami spice by chef mohammad.
it's chef mohammad's own version of a classic levantine spice blend commonly known in the region as "baharat mshakaleh" , which translates to "mixed spices", and used interchangeably with the more famous lebanese 7 spice blend. today, it has become an informal symbol of tradition that connects generations through the preparation of time-honored dishes, passed down from one generation to the next, making it a beloved part of arab culinary heritage.
it's chef mohammad's own version of a classic levantine spice blend commonly known in the region as "baharat mshakaleh" , which translates to "mixed spices", and used interchangeably with the more famous lebanese 7 spice blend. today, it has become an informal symbol of tradition that connects generations through the preparation of time-honored dishes, passed down from one generation to the next, making it a beloved part of arab culinary heritage.
shawarmaji shami spice is a mixture of allspice, coriander, cardamom, cumin, ginger, black pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, fennel seed, anis seed, white pepper, and caraway.
in the words of the chef, "if you want anything to taste arab, use shami spice".
it's also a key blend in our newest spice collection, the teta spice box, which is a collection of spice blends that we've purposed to represent the essentials of an arab mother or grandmother's pantry. the blends featured in it both celebrate our most traditional meals and fulfill any cook's everyday cooking needs, and shami is the most versatile blend in the collection. whether you're preparing a hearty stew, marinating meats, or adding depth to vegetables, shami spice can create a solid foundation of flavor for any direction you choose to go in.
it's also a key blend in our newest spice collection, the teta spice box, which is a collection of spice blends that we've purposed to represent the essentials of an arab mother or grandmother's pantry. the blends featured in it both celebrate our most traditional meals and fulfill any cook's everyday cooking needs, and shami is the most versatile blend in the collection. whether you're preparing a hearty stew, marinating meats, or adding depth to vegetables, shami spice can create a solid foundation of flavor for any direction you choose to go in.
with its deep-rooted significance in arab cuisine, which comes from a tradition of hospitality and generosity, the scent of shami spice evokes memories of home-cooked meals, comfort, and cherished gatherings.
below is one such meal from chef mohammad's recipe book. a simple, delicious way to use it the next time you want to make something for your loved ones to gather around:
shami spiced lamb stew
ingredients:
1 lb lamb, cut into chunks
2 tbsp shami spice
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil, or samneh
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth
1 tsp salt, to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
2 tbsp shami spice
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil, or samneh
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth
1 tsp salt, to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
prep:
- in a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- add lamb chunks and cook until browned on all sides.
- sprinkle in shami spice and stir to coat the lamb evenly.
- pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth, then bring to a boil. reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
- season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with cilantro before serving.
- serve with a side of white rice.
we've made a name for ourselves with our toum and sauces, but our spices and spice blends are the backbone of all the food we prepare. they're crucial for us to make the tasty food that'll pair with our condiments, and you can now do it all yourself from your kitchen too.
peace, love, and toum,
the shawarmaji family
