Ras el hanout spice Literally translated as “head of shop,” the Arabic phrase ras el hanout really means “top shelf.” Legend has it this Moroccan spice blend was created by North African spice dealers who would mix together the best of what they had on offer, thus creating a heady, aromatic signature blend—sometimes 50 individual spices deep. Here the vibrant, earthy mix is pared down to just eight spices (plus salt), including cinnamon, cumin, coriander, allspice, black pepper, and ginger. Ras el hanout spice is essential to the savory turkey pie known as b'stilla, but makes an excellent addition to lamb burgers and roasted chicken as well.