1. If using whole spices, put all the ingredients in a nonstick pan over medium-high heat and toast, stirring constantly, until the mixture emits a pleasant aroma, 3 to 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let cool. (This first step is not necessary if using commercially ground spices.)
3. Using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder, reduce the ingredients to a fine powder.
4. Sift to remove fibrous elements. Place in a tightly sealed container and store in a cool, dark place, or in the freezer.
Note: Blade mace, also called mace blades, is the lacy, scarlet aril covering the nutmeg. It turns light brown as it dries. It is better known in its powdered form as ground mace
*Recipe taken from Cooking at the Kasbah : Recipes from My Moroccan Kitchen by Kitty Morse
