A healthy, homemade African macadamia nut recipe
Dukkah is a flavorful blend of nuts, seeds, and spices, traditionally enjoyed with bread and olive oil. We decided to mix things up with an oil that has even more Mediterranean-style healthy fats than olive oil: macadamia oil. By swapping conventional nuts and oils for macadamia nuts and macadamia nut oil, this recipe enhances both the flavor and health benefits.
Macadamias are the best source of monounsaturated fats (MUFAs), low in inflammatory linoleic acid (LA) which is synonymous with seed oils, and rich in rare omega-7s, linked to improving skin elasticity, metabolic function, and longevity.
Even more, macadamia nut oil is arguably the healthiest cooking oil. Unlike seed oils, which are high in pro-inflammatory polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), macadamia oil has a high smoke point, oxidative stability, and more healthy monounsaturated fats than even olive and avocado oil. This fat profile is better for balancing the saturated fat in meats than butter or beef tallow, making macadamia oil the best oil for grilling steak.
Ready to try a delicious traditional meal with a macadamia twist? This Macadamia Nut Dukkah is the perfect blend of health benefits, versatility, and flavor.
What Is Dukkah?
Dukkah (pronounced "doo-kah") is an Egyptian spice mix traditionally made with roasted nuts, sesame seeds, coriander, and cumin. It’s often served as a dip with bread and oil or sprinkled over roasted vegetables, meats, and salads for an extra crunch.
Given its Middle Eastern and African origins, we thought a Southern African twist would be an interesting addition. South Africa is currently the leading exporter of macadamia nuts, and from where we source all our macadamias from farmers we know.
This macadamia-based dukkah brings a buttery, subtle twist to the classic recipe while also reducing anti-nutrients, which are significantly higher in nuts like almonds and avoiding inflammatory seed oils.
Macadamia Nut Dukkah Recipe
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Ingredients:
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⅓ cup macadamia nuts (we recommend dry-roasted for enhanced flavor)
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½ cup white sesame seeds
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¼ cup onion seeds (also known as black cumin seeds)
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1 tbsp black pepper
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1 tsp salt
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tbsp cinnamon
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2 tbsp macadamia nut oil (try this extra virgin cold-pressed one)
Instructions:
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Toast the macadamia nuts
Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C). Spread macadamia nuts evenly on a baking tray and roast for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool, then crush or blend into coarse crumbs.
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Roast the spices
In a dry pan, toast the sesame seeds, onion seeds, black pepper, salt, paprika, and cinnamon over medium heat until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Stir frequently to prevent burning.
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Combine everything
Mix the crushed macadamia nuts, roasted spices, and macadamia nut oil in a bowl. Stir well to ensure an even coating.
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Let cool & store
Once cooled, transfer the dukkah to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature.
How to Use Macadamia Dukkah
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With macadamia oil & sourdough: Dip fresh sourdough or a gluten-free alternative into cold-pressed macadamia nut oil, then coat with dukkah.
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On steak or grilled meat: Sprinkle over grass-fed steak, lamb, or chicken for an added crunch.
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On roasted vegetables: Toss with roasted cauliflower, eggplant, or sweet potatoes.
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As a salad topper: Add to Mediterranean-style salads for texture and flavor.
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With avocado: Sprinkle over avocado toast with macadamia oil for an elevated breakfast, filled with healthy fats.
Why Macadamia Nuts and Macadamia Oil?
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Healthiest Nut: Lowest in carbs, highest in monounsaturated fats, and almost no inflammatory linoleic acid.
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Oxidative Stability: Unlike seed oils, macadamia oil doesn’t oxidize easily, keeping its nutrients intact.
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Supports Skin & Longevity: High in omega-7 fatty acids, which support natural collagen production and cellular repair.
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Keto & Paleo-Friendly: Naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and ours are free from added seed oils or sugars.
If you're looking for a versatile, healthy condiment, this Macadamia Nut Dukkah is a must-try. It delivers bold flavors and incredible health benefits in every bite, without the drawbacks of seed oils or high-oxalate nuts.
Try it and let us know what you think about our healthy macadamia nut twist.
Want More Macadamia-Inspired Recipes?
