Pistachio and Orange Dukkah

A Crunchy, Fragrant Dip Mix

Dukkah is an Egyptian blend of toasted nuts, seeds and spices, and it has become a staple in so many Australian kitchens. You dip bread into good olive oil, then into the dukkah, and suddenly a simple plate of bread is a little feast. It makes a lovely gift for people who like to entertain, and it's wonderful to have on hand for the Christmas Eve drinks table.

This version uses green pistachios and a hint of dried orange zest, which gives it a festive colour and a sweet, bright note. It's very forgiving. The only skills you need are watching a pan so nothing burns, and knowing when to stop grinding. I'll show you both.

Packaging and Gifting

Use small jars of 150 ml (5 fl oz), with tight lids. A jar this size holds about 75 g of dukkah, which is plenty for several dips. Wash the jars in hot soapy water, rinse, and dry them in a 100°C oven for 10 minutes, then let them cool before filling. Any moisture in the jar will shorten the shelf life.

To decorate, tie a ribbon around the neck of the jar, add a sprig of dried rosemary or a strip of dried orange peel, and finish with a kraft tag. You could also tuck a jar into a small basket with the pairings below.

Label wording:

Pistachio and Orange Dukkah. Made on [date]. Best within 6 weeks. Keep sealed in a cool, dark cupboard. Contains tree nuts (pistachio) and sesame. Serve with bread and olive oil.

Gift tag message: Dip, scatter, repeat. Enjoy with good bread and a little olive oil. Merry Christmas from [name].

Allergen warning: this dukkah contains tree nuts (pistachios) and sesame seeds, which are serious allergens for some people. Say so clearly on the label. If you are giving it to a family with allergies, don't give it unless you know it is safe. Remember that the nuts can leave traces on equipment, so wash everything well afterwards.

Lovely things to pair it with:

• A small bottle of extra virgin olive oil

• A fresh sourdough loaf, or a bag of crackers (try my Seeded Lavosh Crackers)

• A small dish or shallow bowl for serving

How to Serve Dukkah

The classic way is the simplest. Pour a little olive oil onto a small plate, put dukkah on another plate beside it, then tear a piece of fresh bread, dip it in the oil and press it into the dukkah. Here are a few more ideas for the person who receives your gift.

• Bread and oil: a loaf of warm crusty bread, torn into pieces.

• Eggs: sprinkle over soft-boiled or fried eggs.

• Roast vegetables: scatter over roast pumpkin, carrots or cauliflower in the last minute.

• Yoghurt and labneh: spoon over a bowl of thick yoghurt with a drizzle of honey.

• Salads: sprinkle on a green salad or a tomato salad.

• Crumb for fish or chicken: press onto the fish and bake.

Making It With the Kids/Grandkids

• Ages 3 and up: measure and tip the seeds into bowls, stir in the sesame seeds and salt, and decorate the labels.

• Ages 5 and up: spoon the dukkah into the jars with a funnel, and tie on the ribbon.

• Ages 8 and up: use a mortar and pestle to crush the spices, with an adult watching.

• Adults only: the hot oven, the hot pan and the food processor blade.

Please check for allergies first. If any child in the house has a nut or sesame allergy, make this one without them.

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This post is part of my Edible Gifts From the Kitchen series. You will find more edible gift ideas and loads of Christmas recipes here.

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With love, Kim xx

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