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Thai House Rub

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

Thai House Rub

Thai House Rub is a versatile pantry blend that finds its place in kitchens across Thailand. This rub is not tied to a specific occasion but serves as a cornerstone of Thai culinary tradition, ready to be sprinkled over meats, vegetables, or even tofu. It is a blend that embodies the adaptability and resourcefulness of Thai home cooking, allowing cooks to infuse their dishes with a burst of authentic flavor.

The flavor profile of this rub is a harmonious balance of earthy cumin and smoky paprika, underscored by the bright notes of coriander. A hint of black pepper adds warmth, while fine sea salt rounds everything out, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients it accompanies. Use it to elevate everyday dishes into something memorable, rooted in the essence of Thai cuisine.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Begin by placing a 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 the spices are ready when they release a rich, warm aroma and the color deepens slightly, which should take a few minutes.
  2. Once the spices are fragrant, remove the skillet from the heat. Allow the spices to cool completely in the skillet, as this will prevent them from becoming too brittle when you handle them next.
  3. Once cooled, transfer the spices to a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Add 1 tablespoon of fine sea salt to the mixture. Grind or combine the spices until they are evenly mixed and have a uniform texture. This ensures that each use of the rub will have a balanced flavor profile.
  4. Transfer the blended spices to an airtight container. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, to protect the spices from light and moisture, which can degrade their potency.
  5. For the best aroma and flavor, aim to use the Thai House Rub within a few months. This will ensure that your dishes benefit from the full depth of the spices' flavors.
Cover of Authentic Thai Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Thai Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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