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One of our favourite outings in Istanbul is when we visit the Spice Bazaar near the shores of the Golden Horn. Spices from all parts of the Ottoman
empire and beyond have been traded here since its construction in 1660
along
with extensions to the nearby mosques.
Stall after colourful stall containing all manner of exotic aromas from
the
spices, herbs, teas, seeds, nuts, Turkish delight scented with rose, lemon
or pistachio, saffron and caviar greet us. In the outer section there are
even
more stalls filled to the brim with all manner of household goods.
It is a wonderful place to experience and explore.
Above many of the stalls you will see the word Baharat emblazoned in large
letters. Baharat means "flowers and seeds" or more loosely
translated as
"herbs and spices". It is also the name given to the typical
blend of
aromatic spices used widely in the Middle East.
Traditionally the Baharat spice blend is added to recipes along with other
sweet, pungent, hot and freshly ground spices. A typical Baharat will
contain black peppercorns, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, cinnamon or
cassia,
cloves, cardamom, paprika and nutmeg.
Baharat is a marvellous compliment for lamb, chicken, fish, soups,
casseroles, stews, curries........
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