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Persian House Rub

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

Persian House Rub

Persian House Rub is a staple in Iranian kitchens, a versatile blend that serves as a bridge between the pantry and the dining table. It is employed throughout the year, adding depth to both everyday meals and festive occasions. This aromatic mix reflects the vibrant interplay of spices that characterizes Persian cuisine, infusing dishes with warmth and complexity.

The rub's bold yet harmonious flavor profile, with cumin and paprika at the forefront, transforms any dish it touches. The subtle heat from black pepper balances the earthiness of coriander, while fine sea salt ties everything together. Whether sprinkled over meats or vegetables, it enriches every bite, making each meal a journey through the enticing landscapes of Persian culinary tradition.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Begin by setting 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 continuously with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting. You will know the spices are ready when they release a fragrant aroma and the cumin turns a slightly darker shade.
  2. Once the spices are toasted, immediately transfer them to a cool, dry plate to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool completely, which should take about 5 to 10 minutes. This cooling step is crucial to prevent any residual heat from altering the blend's flavor.
  3. After the spices have cooled, combine them with 1 tablespoon of fine sea salt in a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle. Grind or mix until the blend is uniform in texture and color. This ensures that each pinch of the rub will have a balanced flavor.
  4. Transfer the Persian House Rub to an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store it in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard, to protect it from light and moisture, which can degrade the spices.
  5. For optimal flavor, use the Persian House Rub within a few months. Its aroma and potency are at their peak during this time, making it perfect for seasoning meats, vegetables, or grains in Persian cuisine.
Cover of Authentic Persian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Persian Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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