Raz el hanout

Ras el hanout, literally "head of the grocery store" as this blend is a staple of North African grocery stores, is a blend of spices used mainly in the cuisine of Maghreb countries. It is sold in spice shops and souks, either ground or raw. Its price varies from simple to double, depending on the ingredients used. It's also known as "Maghreb curry". Ras el Hanout is used in the preparation of tajine and mloukhia, as well as couscous. Compounded and dosed according to the science and whim of the seller, ras el hanout is the spice of Aïd el-Kebir and certain winter dishes intended to warm the body. It is often added to game dishes.