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Brasileiro Chili Salt

Serves about 1/2 cup Spice Mix vegan, Spice Mixes

Brasileiro Chili Salt

Brasileiro Chili Salt is a pantry staple that captures the essence of Brazilian flavors, perfect for elevating everyday meals. In Brazilian households, this blend finds its place on the table year-round, ready to add a burst of warmth and depth to everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. It’s a simple yet transformative mix that embodies the vibrant spice palate cherished in Brazilian cuisine.

The taste of Brasileiro Chili Salt is a balanced harmony of fiery chili flakes and earthy cumin, rounded out by the savory depth of garlic powder and the clean salinity of fine sea salt. This seasoning should feel like a gentle heat that enlivens each bite, leaving a lingering warmth on the palate. Use it as a finishing touch or incorporate it into marinades to infuse dishes with its distinctive flavor.

Ingredients

  • 3 tbspchili flakes
  • 2 tbspfine sea salt
  • 1 tbspgarlic powder
  • 1 tspcumin

Method

  1. Place a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of chili flakes and 1 teaspoon of cumin to the skillet. Stir the spices continuously with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting. You'll know they're ready when the chili flakes darken slightly and a warm, spicy aroma fills the air.
  2. Remove the skillet from heat and immediately transfer the toasted spices to a plate to cool. This prevents them from continuing to cook in the hot pan, which could lead to bitterness.
  3. Once the spices have cooled completely, combine them in a small bowl with 2 tablespoons of fine sea salt and 1 tablespoon of garlic powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
  4. If you prefer a finer texture, you can grind the mixture using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder. This step is optional but can help the flavors meld more seamlessly.
  5. Transfer the finished Brasileiro Chili Salt to an airtight container. Make sure the container is clean and dry to prevent moisture from affecting the blend.
  6. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, to preserve the vibrant flavors and colors of the spices.
  7. For the best aroma and potency, aim to use your Brasileiro Chili Salt within a few months. This ensures that the spices remain fresh and flavorful for your culinary creations.
Cover of Authentic Brazilian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Brazilian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Brazilian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Brazilian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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