Dukka Spice Blend for Heart Health
This blend of nuts, seeds and spices originated in Egypt as a spread for flat bread or as a dip.
Benefits: Nuts and sesame seeds have unsaturated omega-6 fatty acids which are considered heart-healthy. Focusing on unsaturated fatty acids rather than saturated fats can improve cardiovascular health. Coriander seeds contain magnesium (which helps lower blood pressure) and selenium (which protects the heart and regulates blood clotting). Sumac also can help to decrease blood pressure. Cumin has iron which transports oxygen around the body, and manganese which is part of an enzyme that fights free radicals.
Yields about 1¾ cups
Ingredients
1/3 cup whole coriander seeds
3 Tbs. cumin seeds
1 cup toasted almonds or hazelnuts
1 tsp. sea salt
2 Tbs. sumac
¼ cup toasted sesame seeds
Directions
- In a large skillet, toast the coriander and cumin seeds over low heat, for 3 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Put all the ingredients except the sesame seeds into a food processor; pulse until it becomes the consistency of coarse sand.
- Add the sesame seeds; mix to incorporate.
- Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator.
