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Middle Eastern Chili Salt

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

Middle Eastern Chili Salt

Middle Eastern Chili Salt is a fiery pantry staple that graces tables across the region, enhancing traditional dishes with a bold punch. This blend is crafted by combining robust chili flakes with fine sea salt, garlic powder, and a hint of cumin, creating a seasoning that is as versatile as it is vibrant. It's often sprinkled over grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or used to enliven dips and spreads.

The taste is a harmonious marriage of heat and earthy depth, with the chili providing a warm kick and the cumin lending a subtle smokiness. The garlic powder adds a savory layer that rounds out the seasoning. This blend is meant to be a finishing touch, awakening the flavors of your dish with its distinctive, spicy flourish.

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. You will know they are ready when the chili flakes deepen in color and the cumin releases a warm, nutty aroma, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  2. Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately transfer the toasted chili flakes and cumin to a large plate or a cool surface to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool completely, which is crucial to prevent any moisture from forming when you grind them.
  3. Once the spices are completely cool, combine them with 2 tablespoons of fine sea salt and 1 tablespoon of garlic powder in a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle. Grind the mixture until it reaches a uniform texture, ensuring the salt and garlic powder are evenly distributed with the toasted spices.
  4. Transfer the ground chili salt blend to an airtight container. Make sure the container is clean and dry to prevent any moisture from affecting the blend.
  5. Store the airtight container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, to preserve its flavor and aroma. For the best aroma, use the Middle Eastern Chili Salt within a few months.
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…

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