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Filipino Warm Spice Blend 2

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

Filipino Warm Spice Blend 2

Filipino Warm Spice Blend 2 is a pantry staple that finds its way into many Filipino homes, enhancing dishes with its aromatic warmth. This blend is not tied to a specific dish or occasion but rather serves as a versatile addition to any meal that calls for a comforting, spicy undertone. Its presence is felt throughout the year, lending depth to both everyday cooking and festive meals alike.

The blend's cinnamon-forward profile is balanced by the floral notes of cardamom and the sharpness of black pepper, creating a harmonious yet bold flavor. Cloves add a sweet warmth, while fine sea salt ties everything together, enhancing each spice's unique character. This blend should taste like a warm embrace, inviting and familiar, yet with a hint of intrigue.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Begin by placing a small, dry skillet over medium 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 aroma becomes rich and slightly sweet, and the spices take on a slightly darker hue.
  2. Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately transfer the spices to a cool plate to stop the toasting process. Allow the spices to cool completely, which will take about 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling step is crucial to prevent any residual heat from affecting the grinding process.
  3. Once cooled, transfer the spices to a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle. Add 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt to the mix. Grind the spices until they form a uniform, fine powder. Ensure there are no large chunks left, as this will ensure an even distribution of flavors in your dishes.
  4. Transfer the ground spice blend to an airtight container. Choose a container that seals well to prevent moisture from entering, which can degrade the spices. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight.
  5. For optimal flavor, use the spice blend within a few months. This will ensure that the aroma and taste remain vibrant, enhancing your Filipino dishes with its warm and complex notes.
Cover of Authentic Filipino Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Filipino Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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