spices

Sumac Seeded Dukkah

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Dukkah is probably one of my all time favourite ‘toppers’.

What’s a ‘topper’ you say?

Well, a topper is a nutrient dense addition to a meal, usually something eaten in small amounts but gives ultimate bang for your buck in terms of micro and macro nutrients. Bonus points if it also adds extra flavour to a meal too, and this is why dukkah is my favourite one.

This sumac seeded dukkah is an absolute sinch to make and a great one for whipping up for a gift when you want to be thrifty yet creative (the gift of food is my favourite gift!). It’s loaded with zinc rich seeds, and spices and herbs that add a little zing to your meal. It goes great with eggs cooked anyway, sprinkled over salads and steamed veggies, as a garnish for tip, the possibilities are truly endless! -Renee x

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Makes: 1 medium sized jar

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 10 minutes

Total time: 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds

  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds

  • 2 tablespoons coriander seeds

  • 1/4 tablespoon peppercorns

  • 3/4 tsp ground fennel

  • 3 tsp sumac

  • 1/2 tsp sweet paprika

  • 3/4-1 tsp salt (we use Mount Zero Pink Lake Salt)

  • 1 1/2 tsp dried thyme

METHOD

  1. In a non-stick pan and over a medium/high heat, dry roast the peppercorns and coriander seeds until they are fragrant and start to pop (approx. 2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and process until broken down but not completely ground.

  2. Add the sunflower seeds and dry roast for a minute or two until they start to brown, then add the sesame seeds and cook until the seeds are fully browned. Move around frequently to prevent sticking and burning.

  3. Remove from heat and add to your process/blender/thermomix along with the toasted coriander and peppercorns and remaining ingredients.

  4. Process until well broken down (I like to leave a few little chunks here and there). Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or sumac if needed.

  5. Allow to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Best consumed within 3 months as it will lose fragrance over time.

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Homemade Mild Curry Powder

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Homemade curry powder is such a cheap and simple thing to make, I don't know why people don't make their own more! Store bought curry powder often has colours, additives and preservatives, so making your own enables you to know exactly what you are putting in your cooking.

I don't generally insist that people choose organic produce when cooking, but when it comes to herbs and spices there really is a huge difference! Spices will last up to 12 months when stored in an airtight container, so despite being a bit more expensive, you will still get bang for your buck. And did you read the Choice review that talked about the actual percentage of oregano that was in common/popular brands of herbs? Make sure you buy reputable brands such as Gourmet Organic Herbs or by bulk herbs online from Honest to Goodness or shops like Terra Madre (if you live in Melbourne).

This curry powder will make enough for 5-8 curries (depending on how strong you like your curry) and will last approximately 12 months in an airtight container.

In a bowl, combine:

  • 4 tsp cumin ground cumin

  • 4 tsp ground coriander

  • 3 tsp turmeric powder

  • 2 tsp mustard powder

  • 1 tsp cardamom powder

  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon

 

Place in an airtight container and store away from heat and direct sunlight.