What is mahlab?
Mahlab · Arabic
A spice ground from the kernel inside a wild cherry pit, used in Middle Eastern and Greek baking. Also spelled mahleb.
What it tastes like
Like cherry and bitter almond, floral and a little marzipan-like, with a slightly bitter finish.
Where you’ll see it
Middle Eastern sweet breads and cookies like maamoul, Greek Easter bread (tsoureki), and the occasional modern dessert.
Related words
- cardamom
- tonka bean
- orange blossom water