South African Inspired Peri Peri Spice Mix

Name: South African Inspired Peri Peri Spice Mix
Prep time: 10 min
Yield: Serves 1
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons smoked paprika – adds smoky depth and vibrant color; 1 tablespoon dried oregano – delivers herbal warmth.; 1 tablespoon garlic powder – a must for savory richness.; 1 tablespoon onion powder – for gentle sweetness.; 2 teaspoons ground cayenne pepper – fiery kick; adjust to taste.; 2 teaspoons ground black pepper – background spice richness.; 1 teaspoon ground cumin – subtle earthiness.; 1 teaspoon dry lemon zest or citric acid – tangy citrus brightness.; 1 teaspoon sea salt – balances the spice; adjust if using salted dishes.; ½ teaspoon smoked chili flakes – optional for texture and extra fire.; Optional add ins; ½ teaspoon chili powder for more depth.; ½ teaspoon dried thyme or bay leaf powder for more herbal notes.

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Add bold, fiery flavour to your dishes with this South African-inspired Peri-Peri spice mix. Perfect for chicken, seafood, or vegetables, this vibrant blend brings a zesty, smoky heat that's both aromatic and authentic.

Ingredients and Method

Ingredients

2 tablespoons smoked paprika – adds smoky depth and vibrant color
1 tablespoon dried oregano – delivers herbal warmth.
1 tablespoon garlic powder – a must for savory richness.
1 tablespoon onion powder – for gentle sweetness.
2 teaspoons ground cayenne pepper – fiery kick; adjust to taste.
2 teaspoons ground black pepper – background spice richness.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – subtle earthiness.
1 teaspoon dry lemon zest or citric acid – tangy citrus brightness.
1 teaspoon sea salt – balances the spice; adjust if using salted dishes.
½ teaspoon smoked chili flakes – optional for texture and extra fire.
Optional add ins
½ teaspoon chili powder for more depth.
½ teaspoon dried thyme or bay leaf powder for more herbal notes.

Method

Gather your spices: Organize ingredients on your counter. Having everything measured before starting streamlines the process—especially when working with fiery spices.
Combine in a bowl: Place smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cayenne, black pepper, ground cumin, lemon zest, salt, and optional smoked chili flakes into your mixing bowl.
Whisk thoroughly: Use a whisk or spoon to mix the spices evenly, breaking up clumps and ensuring balanced distribution of heat and flavour.
Taste & adjust: Take a tiny pinch and sample. Looking for more tang? A bit more lemon zest or citric acid can do wonders. Want more smokiness? Just a dash more smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
Store: Transfer into your airtight jar. Add a label with the date. Keep in a cool, dark place—away from stove heat or direct sunlight.
Use: For a classic peri peri chicken, coat bone-in thighs or drumsticks with olive oil, then dust with this spice mix before grilling or baking (roasting at 200 °C/400 °F for about 35–40 minutes, turning once).
Other uses: Sprinkle on grilled veggies, roasted potatoes, or popcorn. Mix into oil and drizzle over seafood. Use like you'd use za’atar or chaat masala: try it on fresh avocado toast or as a seasoning for eggs!