Peri Peri Masala, also known as Piri Piri or Pili Pili, is a spicy seasoning mix with roots in African and Portuguese cuisine. Here’s a simple recipe to make it at home:
Ingredients
1 tablespoon paprika (smoked or regular)
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)
½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Mix Ingredients: Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well until evenly blended.
Grind (Optional): For a finer texture, you can grind the mixture in a spice grinder or blender.
Store: Transfer the masala to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. It will keep for up to 6 months.
Tips
Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and chili flakes based on your spice preference.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika if you want a hint of smokiness in your masala.
This peri peri masala is great for seasoning fries, chicken, roasted vegetables, and even popcorn.
Brazilian peri peri chicken
Here’s a recipe for Brazilian-inspired peri-peri chicken that combines Brazilian flavors with the signature heat and spice of peri-peri sauce.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
4-6 chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
3-4 red chili peppers (adjust for your spice preference)
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp vinegar (white or apple cider)
1 tbsp sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
For Garnish (Optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Lime or lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, add the red chili peppers, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, vinegar, and sugar. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust for spice level or seasoning.
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
Cook the Chicken
Grill Method: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until the skin is charred and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 35-45 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley and serve with lime or lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Brazilian peri-peri chicken with rice, a side of grilled vegetables, or Brazilian-style farofa (toasted cassava flour) for an authentic experience.
Enjoy.
Peri Peri fryes
Here’s a recipe for Peri-Peri fries that packs a spicy, tangy punch. You can make them using fresh or frozen fries.
Ingredients:
3–4 large potatoes (or frozen fries)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp chili powder or peri-peri spice mix (optional for extra heat)
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Potatoes:
If using fresh potatoes, peel and cut them into fries. Soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch (for crispier fries).
Drain, rinse, and pat dry with a paper towel.
Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, mix the olive oil with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, and chili powder or peri-peri spice if using.
Add the fries to the bowl and toss well to coat them evenly.
Bake or Air Fry:
For Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
For Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook fries in batches for about 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp.
Serve:
Transfer fries to a serving plate and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
Serve hot with a dip like garlic mayo, peri-peri sauce, or ketchup.
Enjoy your spicy, flavorful Peri-Peri fries.
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