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PortugueseAuthentic Cuisine

Ervas Alentejanas Secas

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

Ervas Alentejanas Secas

Ervas Alentejanas Secas, a quintessential dried herb mix from the Alentejo region, steps in when the fresh bounty of spring and summer fades into memory. As the days grow shorter and cooler, this aromatic blend finds its way into comforting dishes like açordas and migas, or a simmering pot of caracóis, capturing the essence of the countryside even in the chill of winter.

The mix offers a robust, earthy aroma with the brightness of coriander and the minty notes of pennyroyal, rounded out by the savory depth of garlic and oregano. When stirred into a dish, it lends a complexity that speaks of sun-drenched fields and traditional kitchens, bringing a taste of Alentejo to your table.

Ingredients

  • 4 tbspdried coriander leaf
  • 2 tbspdried pennyroyal — or dried mint
  • 2 tbspdried oregano
  • 2 tbspgarlic powder
  • 1 tbspdried thyme
  • 2 tspfine sea salt

Method

  1. Start by placing 4 tablespoons of dried coriander leaf, 2 tablespoons of dried pennyroyal, and 2 tablespoons of dried oregano in a large mixing bowl. Using your palms, gently crumble the dried leaves. This method releases the essential oils, enhancing the aroma and flavor without turning the herbs into powder.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of dried thyme, and 2 teaspoons of fine sea salt to the crumbled herbs. Use a spoon or spatula to fold the garlic powder and salt into the herb mixture. Stir until the blend is uniform, ensuring there are no clumps of any single ingredient.
  3. To prepare the herb mix for use, take 1 tablespoon of the blend and place it in a small bowl. Pour enough hot water over the herbs to just cover them, then add a splash of olive oil. Let it steep for a few minutes; the herbs should soften and release a fragrant aroma, indicating they are ready to be added to your dish.
  4. Transfer the remaining herb mix to an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from any steam or direct sunlight. This will preserve the mix's scent and flavor for up to six months, after which it should be replaced for optimal taste.
Cover of Authentic Portuguese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Portuguese Cuisine

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