ROSE WATER
Made with Damask rose petals, this ingredient is the star in many Middle Eastern desserts, such as baklava, cakes, and the rice pudding recipe at left. Its rose flavor and aroma are quite strong, so a small splash is all you need to infuse treats with a balanced floral flavor. $6 snukfoods.com
BAHARAT
The Lebanese Stuffed Cabbages recipe, left, calls for a seven-spice blend that is also known as baharat. The blend varies by region, but the Lebanese version typically includes black pepper, allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, coriander, cloves and ginger. It has a strong warm and earthy flavor, so use it sparingly on beef, lamb, chicken, soups and veggies. $10 rumispice.com
SUMAC
This deep maroon-colored spice has a bright lemony flavor that adds a citrusy punch to spice rubs and…
