Lebanese Seven-Spice Mixture

This aromatic spice mixture is the Lebanese version of baharat—the word means “spice” in Arabic. A good pinch added to lentils with onions or to quince stuffing transforms the flavors into something exceptional. As with all spice blends, it comes in various combinations, and every cook has his or her own version. My good friend Anissa Helou, Lebanese food authority, gave me her recipe.