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Vietnamese House Rub

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

Vietnamese House Rub

Vietnamese House Rub is a pantry staple across many homes in Vietnam, cherished for its versatility and robust flavor. Born from the need to quickly season meats and vegetables, this blend is a go-to for daily meals or impromptu gatherings. It's not tied to any specific occasion, making it an everyday essential that elevates anything it touches, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables.

The rub is a harmonious blend where the earthiness of cumin meets the warmth of paprika, balanced by the citrusy notes of coriander. A hint of black pepper adds subtle heat, while fine sea salt ties it all together, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them. It's a simple yet powerful mix that brings a touch of Vietnam to any dish.

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, and 1 tablespoon of ground coriander to the skillet. Stir the spices constantly with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting. You'll know they're ready when the aroma becomes rich and the color slightly deepens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Once the spices are toasted, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the spices to a plate to cool completely. This step is crucial to prevent the spices from continuing to cook in the hot skillet, which could lead to a burnt taste.
  3. After the spices have cooled, combine them with 1 teaspoon of black pepper and 1 tablespoon of fine sea salt in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure that the spices and salt are evenly distributed. This will create a balanced flavor profile in the rub.
  4. Transfer the combined spices into an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Store the jar in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard, to protect the spices from light and moisture, which can degrade their flavor.
  5. For the best aroma and potency, use the Vietnamese House Rub within a few months. This blend is perfect for seasoning meats, vegetables, or adding a flavorful kick to your favorite Vietnamese dishes.
Cover of Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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