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West African Chili Salt 2

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

West African Chili Salt 2

West African Chili Salt 2 is a vibrant pantry staple, cherished across the region for its ability to breathe new life into everyday meals. This blend, with its roots deeply embedded in the culinary traditions of West Africa, is a go-to seasoning for enhancing the flavor of meats, stews, and even roasted vegetables. It's a versatile mix that finds its place on tables year-round, turning ordinary dishes into something extraordinary with just a sprinkle.

The taste of this chili salt is a bold, fiery embrace, where the heat of chili flakes meets the earthy warmth of cumin and the aromatic punch of garlic powder. The fine sea salt acts as a conductor, bringing all these flavors together in perfect harmony. This seasoning is not just about heat; it's a balanced dance of spice and savor, designed to elevate whatever it touches.

Ingredients

  • 3 tbspchili flakes
  • 2 tbspfine sea salt
  • 1 tbspgarlic powder
  • 1 tspcumin

Method

  1. Place a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of chili flakes to the skillet. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting. You'll know they're ready when the chili flakes release a warm, spicy aroma and deepen slightly in color, which should take a few minutes.
  2. Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately transfer the toasted chili flakes to a cool plate to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool completely before proceeding to the next step. This prevents any residual heat from altering the flavors when combined with other ingredients.
  3. Once the chili flakes are completely cool, combine them in a small mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of fine sea salt, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. Mix thoroughly using a spoon or your fingers, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the blend.
  4. Transfer the West African Chili Salt 2 mixture into an airtight container. It's important to choose a container that seals well to preserve the freshness and potency of the spices.
  5. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. This will help maintain the blend's vibrant aroma and flavor. For the best results, use it within a few months.
Cover of Authentic West African Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic West African Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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