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Pakistani House Rub

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

Pakistani House Rub

The Pakistani House Rub is a staple pantry blend that finds its roots in the everyday kitchens of Pakistan. This versatile mix is the unsung hero of many a meal, lending depth and warmth to dishes prepared across the country. It’s not tied to a specific occasion but rather serves as a reliable companion for enhancing flavors throughout the year.

Expect a harmonious blend where the earthiness of cumin meets the smoky allure of paprika, while coriander adds a citrusy lift. Black pepper provides a gentle heat, balanced by the subtlety of fine sea salt. This rub is the quiet architect of flavor, transforming ordinary ingredients into something truly special.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbspground cumin
  • 2 tbsppaprika
  • 1 tbspground coriander
  • 1 tspblack pepper
  • 1 tbspfine sea salt

Method

  1. Begin by placing a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of ground cumin, 2 tablespoons of paprika, 1 tablespoon of ground coriander, 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 are ready when the spices release a rich, warm aroma and the cumin and coriander take on a slightly darker hue.
  2. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the spices to cool completely in the pan. This cooling step is crucial as it prevents the spices from clumping when you combine them later.
  3. Once the spices have cooled, transfer them to a mixing bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of fine sea salt to the bowl. Use a whisk or your fingers to combine the spices thoroughly, ensuring the salt is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  4. Transfer the blended spices into an airtight container. A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid works well for this purpose. Ensure the container is clean and dry before adding the spice blend to prevent any moisture from affecting the rub.
  5. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, to maintain the potency of the spices. Use the Pakistani House Rub within a few months to enjoy its best aroma and flavor.
Cover of Authentic Pakistani Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Pakistani Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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