West African Warm Spice Blend 2

Ingredients

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

Method

1. Begin by placing a dry, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium 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 continuously to ensure even toasting, which will release their essential oils and enhance their flavors. You'll know they're ready when the spices emit a warm, fragrant aroma and the cinnamon takes on a slightly darker hue.
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 as grinding warm spices can lead to clumping and uneven texture.
3. After the spices have cooled, place them in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Add 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt to the mixture. Grind or combine the spices until they are evenly mixed and achieve a fine, uniform texture.
4. Transfer the spice blend to an airtight container, ensuring it is sealed well to preserve the aroma and flavor. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight.
5. For optimal flavor, use the West African Warm Spice Blend 2 within a few months. This will ensure that the spices retain their vibrant aroma and enhance your dishes with their intended intensity.