The "Ten Spices Mix" is one of the unique recipes that adds a distinctive flavor to food, especially when combined with ground meat. This mix contains a variety of natural spices that offer numerous health benefits. Dry coriander, for example, helps enhance digestion and improve gastrointestinal health. Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels and improve circulation. Black pepper and garlic powder are known for their antibacterial properties and help strengthen the immune system. Moreover, these spices contain a range of vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health and improve body activity.

The mix:

• 1 tablespoon dried coriander
• 1 tablespoon Chinese pepper
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon cloves
• 1 tablespoon aromatic saffron oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger
• 1 tablespoon light mastic
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Ingredient Substitutes

• Cubeb (Chinese cubeb): Can be replaced with nutmeg or cinnamon.
• Black pepper: Can be replaced with white pepper.
• Garlic powder: Can be replaced with freshly grated garlic, using a smaller quantity.
• Onion powder: Can be replaced with ground dried onion.
• Mastic: Can be replaced with a small amount of anise or fennel.
• Zerwod essential oil: Can be replaced with ginger oil or cinnamon oil.

Preparation Method:

1. In a small bowl, mix the dried coriander, Chinese pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cloves, aromatic saffron oil, ginger, light mastic, and cinnamon.
2. Mix the ingredients well until evenly distributed.
3. Store the Ten Spices Mix in an airtight container, away from moisture and heat.
4. It can be used as required in your favorite dishes to add a distinctive and balanced flavor.

Enjoy preparing and using the delicious Ten Spices Mix!

Note: This recipe is suitable for those who enjoy preparing food with a balanced and rich flavor and wish to use a variety of spices in their dishes. It is not suitable for those who prefer foods with simple flavors and minimal spices.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients:

• Dried Coriander: Improves digestion, reduces gas, and helps lower levels of bad cholesterol in the body.
• Chinese Pepper: Contains antibacterial and antifungal properties, and helps improve digestion and strengthen immunity.
• Black Pepper: Enhances circulation, acts as an antioxidant, and contributes to better digestion and increased nutrient absorption.
• Garlic Powder: Contains compounds that help strengthen the immune system and fight inflammation, and also helps lower blood pressure.
• Onion Powder: Improves heart health and boosts the immune system due to its antioxidant content.
• Cloves: Known for their antibacterial and antiviral properties, they contribute to better oral and digestive health.
• Aromatic Saffron Oil: Improves respiratory health and helps relieve stress and anxiety.
• Ginger: Contains strong antioxidants, improves digestion, and reduces bloating.
• Mastic: Beneficial for the digestive system, helps reduce inflammation, and alleviates symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
• Cinnamon: Helps regulate blood sugar levels, promotes heart and artery health, and has antimicrobial effects.

All of these ingredients work together to enhance overall health, support the immune system, and improve digestion, making the Ten Spices Mix a healthy choice to increase food flavor and nutritional benefits.

Potential Side Effects of Some Ingredients

• Cinnamon: May cause stomach irritation when consumed in large amounts and can affect blood thinning.
• Black Pepper: May cause acidity or irritation in the digestive system, especially for those with stomach issues.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: May cause digestive disturbances or allergic reactions in some individuals.
• Mastic: Can trigger allergic reactions, particularly in people sensitive to natural resins.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the optimal daily amount of this spice blend?
It is recommended to use 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per 500 grams of meat or rice, with the quantity adjustable to personal taste.

Can this spice blend be used in vegetarian dishes? How can it be adapted to a healthy diet?
Yes, it can be used in vegetarian dishes such as:

• Seasoning grilled or roasted vegetables for a rich flavor.
• Adding it to vegetable soups to enhance the taste.
• Incorporating it into lentils, chickpeas, or fava beans for a unique flavor.
• Mixing it with olive oil and lemon to create a distinctive salad dressing.

What is the difference between the Ten-Spice Blend and other blends like the Seven-Spice Blend?

• The Seven-Spice Blend typically contains black pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, cubeb, ginger, cloves, and cardamom, focusing on warm and aromatic flavors.
• The Ten-Spice Blend includes a broader range of ingredients, making it more balanced between aromatic and bold flavors and more versatile in various recipes.

Can the ingredients be ground manually instead of purchasing pre-ground spices? How does this affect flavor and quality?
Yes, it is preferable to grind spices manually when needed to maintain a fresh and strong flavor, as pre-ground spices lose some of their essential oils over time. You can use a mortar and pestle or an electric grinder to achieve a fine powder.

What is the best way to store the Ten-Spice Blend? How long does it last?
To maintain the flavor and quality of the Ten-Spice Blend for as long as possible, follow these guidelines:

• Store it in an airtight glass container away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place, such as a kitchen cabinet, rather than near the stove or refrigerator.
• The blend typically lasts 6 months to 1 year without losing its flavor if stored properly.

Calories:

1. Dried Coriander: About 5 calories
2. Chinese Pepper: About 15 calories
3. Black Pepper: About 6 calories
4. Garlic Powder: About 5 calories
5. Onion Powder: About 10 calories
6. Cloves: About 6 calories
7. Aromatic Saffron Oil: About 120 calories (Saffron oil is high in calories)
8. Ginger: About 8 calories
9. Light Mastic: About 10 calories
10. Cinnamon: About 19 calories

You can multiply the number of calories for each ingredient by the number of tablespoons you use in the recipe to get the total calories.