Mahlab

This spice is the ground seed kernels of the Mahlab cherry tree, and it is used primarily to give a bitter edge to sweet foods. It has a flavour which has notes of cherry and bitter almonds. In Greece and the Middle East it is used in baked goods, and Mahlab is the dominant flavour in Greek Christmas and Easter cakes. It is also blended with honey, sesame and nuts in Egypt to form a paste which is eaten as a dessert, or as a snack eaten with bread. Try using Mahlab to flavour homemade icecreams, or in a Summertime fruit punch, for an exotic difference.