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Smoky heat with perfect balance!|Better than store bought versions!|Chicken never tasted this amazing!|Addictive spice blend for everything!|Restaurant flavor in my kitchen!|Kids love the mild version!|Perfect heat level every time!|Makes boring meals incredibly flavorful!
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Peri Peri Spice Rub Recipe
Learn how to make Nando's famous peri peri spice rub recipe at home! This quick and easy blend combines smoky paprika with fiery chilies. Perfect for chicken, beef, or vegetables. How to cook authentic Portuguese flavors in your kitchen with this simple spice mix recipe.
Prep
5 mins
Cook
0 mins
Serve
8
Kcal
15
- 2 tbsp sweet paprika
- 1 tbsp hot paprika (or extra sweet paprika if you prefer mild)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom (or ground allspice)
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp dried lemon zest (or 1/4 tsp citric acid powder)
Step 1
Begin by gathering all your spices and measuring them out precisely into small bowls. This is crucial because the balance of flavours is what makes this rub so distinctive. Make sure your spices are fresh - if any have been sitting in your cupboard for over a year, it's worth replacing them for the best flavour impact.Step 2
In a dry, clean mixing bowl, combine the sweet paprika and hot paprika first. These form the base of your rub and give that characteristic red colour. Whisk them together gently to ensure they're evenly distributed.Step 3
Add the garlic powder and onion powder to the paprika mixture. These provide the savoury foundation that makes this rub so moorish. Whisk everything together for about 30 seconds until you can see the mixture is uniform in colour.Step 4
Next, add the dried oregano and thyme, crushing them slightly between your fingers as you add them. This releases their essential oils and intensifies their flavour. The herbs should break down slightly but not turn to powder.Step 5
Incorporate the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. The smoked paprika adds that distinctive smoky depth that Nando's is famous for, while the cayenne provides the heat. Mix thoroughly for another 30 seconds.Step 6
Add the fine sea salt, black pepper, ground coriander, cardamom, ginger, and turmeric. These spices create the complex flavour profile that makes this rub special. Whisk everything together for a full minute, ensuring there are no clumps and the colour is completely uniform.Step 7
Finally, add the brown sugar and dried lemon zest. The sugar helps with caramelisation when cooking and balances the heat, while the lemon zest adds that bright, citrusy note that's signature to peri peri flavouring. Mix everything together for another minute until completely combined.Step 8
Pass the entire mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to break up any remaining clumps and ensure a smooth, even texture. This step is important for achieving that professional finish and ensuring the rub coats your food evenly.Step 9
Transfer your finished peri peri spice rub to an airtight container or spice jar. Label it with the date you made it. Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. The rub will maintain its potency for up to 6 months, though it's best used within 3 months for maximum flavour impact.Step 10
To use your rub, generously coat chicken, fish, or vegetables about 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavours to penetrate. For best results, pat your protein dry first, then massage the rub into the surface, ensuring even coverage. The longer you can leave it to marinate, the more intense the flavour will be.
FAQ for
Peri Peri Spice Rub Recipe
What ingredients are used in Peri Peri Spice Rub Recipe from Nando's?
This peri peri rub combines sweet and hot paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, pepper, coriander, cardamom, ginger, turmeric, brown sugar, and dried lemon zest.
How to cook Peri Peri Spice Rub Recipe from Nando's at home?
Learn how to cook Nando's Peri Peri Spice Rub Recipe from Nando's by mixing all spices in order, sieving for smoothness, and storing in an airtight container. Apply generously to chicken 30 minutes before cooking for authentic Portuguese-inspired flavour.
How long does homemade peri peri seasoning last when stored properly?
Homemade peri peri spice rub maintains its potency for up to 6 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. For maximum flavour impact, it's best used within 3 months of preparation.
What's the best way to apply peri peri rub to chicken for maximum flavour?
Pat chicken dry first, then massage the rub generously into the surface ensuring even coverage. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking - the longer you marinate, the more intense the flavour.
Can you substitute hot paprika in peri peri spice blend recipes?
Yes, you can substitute hot paprika with extra sweet paprika for a milder version, or use chilli powder or cayenne pepper. Adjust quantities to taste, starting with half the amount and building up the heat level.
The calorie count is an approximation and can vary based on exact measurements and specific ingredients used. Always consult nutritional information if strict adherence to calorie counts is required. This recipe is inspired by the flavours of this restaurant's dishes and has been independently developed for home cooking. It is not an exact match to the proprietary recipe used by the restaurant. This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the restaurant.