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Colombian Warm Spice Blend

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

Colombian Warm Spice Blend

Colombian Warm Spice Blend is a pantry staple cherished in Colombian kitchens. It is versatile and finds its way into a myriad of dishes, adding depth and complexity to both sweet and savory recipes. While not tied to a specific occasion, it is a constant presence around the year, often sprinkled into holiday desserts or used to enhance the richness of meats and stews.

This blend should evoke a warm, fragrant embrace, with cinnamon's comforting sweetness mingling harmoniously with the exotic notes of cardamom. The subtle heat of black pepper and the boldness of cloves add a delightful kick, balanced by a touch of fine sea salt. It's a spice blend that elevates everyday meals into something special, bringing a taste of Colombian warmth to the table.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbspcinnamon
  • 1 tbspcardamom
  • 1 tspcloves
  • 1 tspblack pepper
  • 1 tspfine sea salt

Method

  1. Begin by placing a small, dry skillet on the stove over medium-low heat. Add 2 tablespoons of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of cardamom, 1 teaspoon of cloves, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper to the skillet. Stir the spices continuously with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting. You'll know they're ready when the spices release a warm, inviting aroma and the cinnamon takes on a slightly deeper hue.
  2. Once the spices are toasted, remove the skillet from the heat and allow the spices to cool completely. This cooling step is essential to prevent any residual heat from affecting the grinding process, which can alter the flavor profile of your blend.
  3. Transfer the cooled spices to a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle. Add 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt to the mixture. Grind the spices until they form a uniform, fine powder, ensuring that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the blend.
  4. Once ground, transfer the spice blend to an airtight container. It's important to choose a container that seals well to preserve the freshness and potency of the spices.
  5. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight. This will help maintain the blend's aromatic qualities.
  6. For optimal flavor, use your Colombian Warm Spice Blend within a few months. This ensures that the spices retain their vibrant aroma and enhance your dishes with their full potential.
Cover of Authentic Colombian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Colombian Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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