Home Cook Together. Celebrate Life.

Middle EasternAuthentic Cuisine

Middle Eastern Chili Salt 2

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

Middle Eastern Chili Salt 2

Middle Eastern Chili Salt 2 is a versatile pantry blend that finds its place on many tables across the region. This blend is a simple yet essential combination for those who appreciate the layered flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. Often used to enhance dishes with a spicy kick, it can be sprinkled over grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of hummus, making it a staple throughout the year.

The taste is a vibrant interplay of heat from chili flakes, the earthiness of cumin, a subtle garlic warmth, and the crystalline crunch of fine sea salt. This blend is all about balance, delivering a fiery yet savory punch that elevates any dish it adorns. Ideal for those who seek a quick burst of flavor, it transforms ordinary meals into something memorable with just a sprinkle.

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 continuously with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting, watching for the chili flakes to darken slightly and the cumin to release its aroma, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
  2. Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately transfer the toasted spices to a cool plate or bowl to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool completely to room temperature, which is crucial for maintaining the best flavor and texture when grinding.
  3. Once cooled, combine the toasted chili flakes and cumin with 2 tablespoons of fine sea salt and 1 tablespoon of garlic powder in a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle. Grind or mix until the blend is even in texture, ensuring that the chili flakes are broken down and the ingredients are well-integrated.
  4. Transfer the Middle Eastern Chili Salt 2 blend to an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store the container in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard, to protect the spices from light and moisture.
  5. For optimal aroma and flavor, use the blend within a few months. This blend is perfect for adding a spicy, savory kick to a variety of Middle Eastern dishes.
Cover of Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

Explore Middle Eastern cuisine