Roasted Sesame and Pine Nut Dukkah

Duqqa (also spelled dukkah or dukka) is an Egyptian side dish consisting of a mixture of herbs, nuts, and spices.

The actual composition of the spice mix can vary from family to family, vendor to vendor though there are common ingredients, such as sesame, coriander, cumin, salt and pepper. Reference to a 19th century text lists marjoram, mint, zataar and chickpeas as further ingredients that can be used in the mixture.

Because most dukkahs contain cumin, and as Antony is allergic to it, I was prompted to make a version for both of us to enjoy. Traditionally sesame seeds are the main ingredient, the pine nuts in this version will give it a little added sweetness.

If you’re not fond of sesame seeds then you can use pretty much any nut in dukkah (even pepitas and sunflower seeds) but be aware that nuts with high oil contents (like peanuts and walnuts) will make a ‘wetter’ dukkah that will tend to clump together.

Ingredients

½ cup sesame seeds

½ cup pine nuts

1 tsp ground coriander powder

½ tsp salt

½ tsp ground fennel

¼ tsp chilli powder

¼ tsp cinnamon

1/8 tsp cloves

¼ tsp nutmeg

¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Method

1. In a non-stick pan, dry fry the pine nuts and sesame seeds over medium-high heat until the mixture starts to brown.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients quickly and stir until golden browns but do not allow mixture to burn.
3. Place the mixture into a food processor or Thermomix and blend until desired consistency.
4. Allow to cool before placing in a sealed jar.
5. Serve as an accompaniment with sourdough bread and fine extra virgin olive oil.

Dukkah is best enjoyed fresh but it can be stored in a cool, dry, dark environment (but not the fridge) for up to 2 weeks. Any longer and the nut and seed oils will start to become oxidised and the flavour will change and gradually become unpleasant.

Tips:

You can also use this dukkah as seasoning in cooking for an Egyptian influence by dusting chicken, lamb or beef before cooking.

 

Time: 30 mins

Serves: 20

Best Wine Match: Nova Vita Chardonnay

By : Sigrid de Castella (AKA Mrs Wine Matchmaker)