3. Hawaij
The ingredient hawaij looks like it may be sourced from Hawaii, but it is actually a ground spice mixture from Yemen. Two versions are used in Yemeni kitchens: A savory blend combines cumin, black pepper, coriander, turmeric and cardamom, while a more aromatic, sweet rendition is a mix of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and cloves. The former is used to season vegetables and meats, while the latter appears in coffee and desserts.
On the menu: Hawaij Spiced Chicken Kebab at Shuka, New York City
Chicken rubbed with hawaij and grilled, then served with spiced yogurt, s’chug, parsley and sumac onions