Buck's Spices

Spice Barista Corner

Spice Barista

From the Spice Barista

What is habak, and where can I find it?

A real customer question, curated into a useful guide for cooking, product use, and finding just the right thing.

Habak (حبق) is the Levantine Arabic word for basil — the same aromatic herb found across Middle Eastern and Mediterranean kitchens. We carry it as our Basil (Organic), with that sweet, slightly anise-like punch that pairs beautifully with tomatoes or forms the base of a good pesto.

  • Crumble about a teaspoon of Basil (Organic) into sauces near the end of cooking to keep its aroma bright.
  • Steep a pinch in warm olive oil, then drizzle over flatbread or salads for a simple herby finish.
  • Use it fresh in a pesto or blended with garlic and olive oil for a quick Mediterranean-style spread.