Savory Tweaks: 5 BEST Dukkah Substitutes

Dukkah can be a tricky ingredient to find, as it isn’t as widely available as other herbs and spices.

Also known as dukka or duqqa, this Egyptian condiment is often a blend of ground nuts, herbs and spices.

The flavors can vary from version to version, usually dependent on the region of origin.

While it can be difficult to find in many parts of the world, there are several delicious substitutes that you can use to add layers of flavor and texture to your dishes.

From classic Middle Eastern ingredients to exciting alternatives found in international cuisine, here are some excellent ways to get that distinctive dukkah crunch without having to hunt it down at specialty stores.

What is Dukkah?

Dukkah is a Middle Eastern seasoning blend made up of ground nuts, seeds, and spices.

It’s a wonderfully flavorful condiment with just the right amount of aroma and crunch to take your taste buds on an exotic journey.

Commonly served with olive oil or as a topping for soups, salads, and other dishes, dukkah will add texture and depth to many recipes.

Made from different combinations of spices such as cumin, coriander seeds, sesame seeds, chili flakes, etc.

, each dukkah recipe offers its own unique flavor profile – so there’s always something new to try.

The right mix can instantly elevate any meal to being truly special – so grab some nuts and seeds any create your very own signature dukkah today.

How to Use Dukkah in Recipes?

Dukkah is a popular Middle Eastern condiment and dip primarily made up of nuts, herbs and spices.

Commonly found ingredients in a dukkah mix include hazelnuts, coriander and cumin seeds, fennel seeds, sesame seeds, peppercorns and sea salt.

It can be enjoyed as a dip with oil and bread or used as a seasoning for meat, fish or vegetables.

When using dukkah in recipes, it’s best to add it at the end of the cooking process in order to preserve the flavors of the spices.

Once added, dukkah can be gently heated for a few minutes to allow its flavors to infuse into the food but take care not to overcook it as this will cause it to lose its distinctive taste.

Alternatively, you can use dukkah as an ingredient in your marinades or rubs for an added layer of complex flavor.

5 BEST Dukkah Substitutes You Should Try

Dukkah is a middle eastern condiment, traditionally composed of nuts and spices.

It’s an incredibly versatile and flavorful seasoning with a unique nutty flavor that’s beloved by many.

If you’re looking for an alternative to dukkah, consider the following similar ingredients that you may already have on hand.

1 – Tsire

Tsire is a dry Ethiopian spice mix made from grilled wheat, chickpeas, peanuts, salt, and spices.

It is used to make sauces and is often served as a condiment with injera.

Tsire can be served with oil to create a paste-like consistency which adds extra flavor and crunch when eaten with food.

Its flavor profile is nutty and slightly spicy which makes it an ideal substitute for dukkah in dishes like tagines or falafel.

Tsire isn’t incredibly common but is available in some specialty stores or online.

2 – Za’atar

The second great substitute for dukkah is the combination of herbs and sesame seeds known as za’atar.

This Middle Eastern favorite is often used in spreads and salads, but it can also be used to top vegetables and proteins before roasting or grilling.

It’s comprised of sumac, thyme, sesame seeds, salt, and sometimes oregano.

The herbs contribute a slightly bitter taste to balance out the nutty sesame flavor — perfect for replacing dukkah where it may be too uncommon to find.

There are many versions of za’atar blends available at specialty stores or specialty sections in grocery stores, but it can also be easy to make at home with a combination of your favorite spices.

3 – Furikake

Furikake is a Japanese condiment made from toasted sesame seeds, dried seaweed, and various spices.

It is typically served on top of cooked rice but can also be used as a crunchy garnish for soups and salads.

The flavor runs sweet and savory with a hint of heat from the seasonings such as sansho pepper.

If you don’t have dukkah handy, furikake makes an excellent substitute – though the texture is significantly crunchier than the ground dukkah.

Simply sprinkle it over vegetables before roasting or give your air-fried foods an extra kick of flavor.

Additionally, furikake can be used to make a quick and tasty dip when combined with yogurt, tahini or other creamy ingredients.

4 – Ras el Hanout

Ras el Hanout is a North African spice blend made with many different spices, herb and nuts.

Like dukkah, it has a nutty flavor but is much spicier.

Some common ingredients used to make Ras el Hanout include black and white pepper, fennel seeds, ginger root, chili flakes, lavender and coriander seeds.

To use as a substitute for dukkah in its original style, grind the Ras el Hanout mix into a powder and then mix with almonds or other nuts.

For an extra flavor boost try toasting the mixture briefly before grinding it.

5 – Cajun Spice Blend

Cajun Spice Blend is a versatile blend of herbs and spices that is widely used in Cajun cooking.

It may be composed of different combinations of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, black pepper, oregano, thyme, dill or other ingredients.

This spice blend is commonly used as a rub for grilled meats and can also be used to add depth and kick to salads and other dishes.

Cajun spice blend can bring a unique flavor to dishes that are typically prepared without any spices at all.

If you don’t have access to dukkah or want to change up the flavor profile of your dish, try using a Cajun Spice Blend instead.

Conclusion

Dukkah is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can give your dishes a new, unique flavors.

While it can be hard to find in some parts of the world, there are plenty of other options out there that give you something similar.

From homemade spice blends to nuts and seeds, these five substitutes for dukkah are easy to make or find in any grocery store.

You can use these as toppings for salads, vegetables, proteins, or even snacks.

They offer crunch and flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.

So don’t worry if dukkah isn’t available in your area — try one of these tasty alternatives instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dukkah?

A1: Dukkah is an Egyptian condiment typically made from a blend of nuts, herbs, and spices.

It is used as a dip for bread, vegetables, or fish, or as a seasoning for salads, meats, or stews.

What are the 5 BEST substitutes for Dukkah?

A2: The 5 BEST substitutes for Dukkah are: Za’atar, Berbere, Baharat, Ras el Hanout, and Harissa.

How do you use Dukkah?

A3: Dukkah can be used as a dip for bread, vegetables, or fish, or as a seasoning for salads, meats, or stews.

It can also be used as a coating for baked or fried foods.