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West AfricanAuthentic Cuisine

West African Chili Salt

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

West African Chili Salt

West African Chili Salt is a cherished pantry blend that finds its way onto tables across West Africa, bringing a vibrant kick to everyday meals. It transforms the simplest of dishes into something extraordinary, offering a taste of regional flair with every sprinkle. This blend is a staple, ready to enliven anything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables.

Expect a fiery embrace from the chili flakes, balanced by the depth of cumin and the savory notes of garlic powder, all harmonized with fine sea salt. Each pinch delivers a burst of warmth and earthiness, inviting a layered complexity that enhances rather than overwhelms. Use it liberally to invigorate your favorite dishes.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Place a small, dry skillet on the stove over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of chili flakes and 1 teaspoon of cumin to the skillet. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting. You'll know it's ready when the chili flakes darken slightly and release a robust, spicy aroma.
  2. Remove the skillet from heat and immediately transfer the toasted chili flakes and cumin to a large plate or a cool surface. Spread them out to cool completely. This step prevents the spices from continuing to cook and potentially burning, which would alter the flavor.
  3. Once the spices have cooled, combine them in a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder. Add 2 tablespoons of fine sea salt and 1 tablespoon of garlic powder to the mixture. Grind or mix until the ingredients are evenly combined and the texture is consistent throughout.
  4. Transfer the blended West African Chili Salt into an airtight container. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to maintain freshness. Store the container in a cool, dark place to protect the spices from light and moisture, which can degrade their flavor.
  5. For the best aroma and potency, aim to use the West African Chili Salt within a few months. This blend will enhance the flavors of your dishes, bringing a vibrant, spicy kick to the West African table.
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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