Peri peri masala is a popular spice blend that originates from Portuguese cuisine, but has become a staple
in African and Indian cuisine as well. This spicy blend of herbs and spices adds a unique and intense flavor
to any dish it is added to, making it a must-have for any spice lover. In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, and benefits and provide some delicious recipes for you to try.
Ingredients of Peri Peri Masala
The exact ingredients of this masala can vary depending on the region and personal preferences, but it typically includes a combination of the following ingredients:
Peri peri chili pepper: This is the key ingredient that gives peri peri its signature heat.
Paprika: This mild spice masala adds a slightly sweet and smoky flavor to the blend.
Garlic powder: This adds a savory and slightly pungent taste to the masala.
Onion powder: This adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the blend.
Oregano: This herb adds a slightly bitter and earthy taste to the masala.
Cumin: This spice adds a warm and slightly bitter flavor to the blend.
Salt: This is added to enhance the overall flavor of the masala.
Health Benefits of Peri Peri
Peri peri masala not only adds flavor to your dishes, but it also offers several health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of masala:
Boosts metabolism: this masala contains capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in chili peppers, which has been shown to boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.
Rich in antioxidants: The spices in peri peri masala, such as paprika and oregano, are rich in antioxidants,
which help to protect the body against free radicals that can cause cell damage and contribute to chronic diseases.
Anti-inflammatory properties: The chili peppers in this masala contain capsaicin, which has been shown to
have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Boosts immunity: The garlic in this masala is known for its immune-boosting properties, making it a great addition to your diet during cold and flu season.
Recipes using Peri Peri Masala
Here are some delicious recipes that use peri peri:
Peri Peri Chicken: This spicy grilled chicken recipe is perfect for summer barbecues. Simply marinate chicken
in peri peri masala, olive oil, and lemon juice, then grill until cooked through.
Peri Peri Fries: Sprinkle peri peri over oven-baked fries for a spicy twist on a classic snack.
Peri Peri Shrimp: This simple and flavorful shrimp recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Simply sauté shrimp with peri peri and serve over rice or quinoa.
Peri Peri Roasted Vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts, with peri peri masala and olive oil, then roast in the oven for a delicious and healthy side dish.
How to Use Peri Peri in Your Cooking
Peri peri can be used in a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables to soups and stews.
Here are some tips on how to use peri peri in your cooking:
Marinades: Mix masala with oil, lemon juice, and other herbs and spices to create a flavorful marinade for chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Rubs: Combine masala with salt, pepper, and other seasonings to create a rub for steak, pork chops, or even roasted potatoes.
Sauces: Mix masala with mayonnaise, yogurt, or sour cream to create a spicy dipping sauce for vegetables
or a tangy dressing for salads.
Soups and stews: Add a teaspoon or two of peri peri masala to your favorite soup or stew recipe to give it an extra kick of flavor.
Snacks: Sprinkle masala on popcorn, roasted nuts, or potato chips for a spicy snack.
Conclusion
Peri peri masala is a versatile spice blend that can add a delicious and spicy kick to your cooking. Whether
you’re grilling meats, roasting vegetables, or making a spicy sauce, peri peri is a great way to add flavor to
your dishes. And with its health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory properties, it’s a great choice for
anyone looking to add some spice to their diet. So next time you’re looking to add some heat to your
cooking, give peri peri a try!