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Peruvian Warm Spice Blend

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

Peruvian Warm Spice Blend

This Peruvian Warm Spice Blend is a staple of the Andean pantry, infusing dishes with a subtle warmth that echoes the diverse climates of Peru. Often prepared in advance and stored for use throughout the year, it finds its way into countless traditional recipes, from stews to roasted meats, enriching everyday meals with its aromatic presence.

The blend’s harmonious balance of spices offers a gentle heat with a sweet undertone, thanks to the prominence of cinnamon and cardamom. A hint of cloves adds depth, while black pepper provides a mild kick, all rounded off by the essential touch of fine sea salt. Use it to elevate your dishes, capturing the essence of Peruvian warmth in every bite.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Begin by placing a small, dry skillet over low 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 gently with a wooden spoon to ensure even heating. Toast them until you notice a warm, aromatic fragrance filling the kitchen, which should take a few minutes. Be careful not to let the spices burn; adjust the heat if necessary.
  2. Once the spices are fragrant, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the spices to a cool plate to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool completely, which is crucial for maintaining their volatile oils and flavors.
  3. Once the spices are cooled, place them in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Add 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt to the mix. Grind or combine the spices until they form a uniform, fine powder. The mixture should be evenly colored and well-blended, without any large pieces remaining.
  4. Transfer the ground spice blend to an airtight container. Ensure the container is clean and dry to prevent moisture from affecting the blend.
  5. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. This will help preserve the spices' potency and flavor.
  6. For the best aroma and flavor, use the Peruvian Warm Spice Blend within a few months. This blend is perfect for adding warmth and depth to a variety of Peruvian dishes.
Cover of Authentic Peruvian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Peruvian Cuisine

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

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