Ras el Hanout

Ras el hanout is a Moroccan spice blend that can contain more than 30 ingredients. There is not one set recipe for the blend. For the Moroccan souks (spice merchants) it is a point of honor to have the most sought after version. It is extremely versatile, adding a golden color and an aromatic and enticing flavor to chicken and vegetables. Add a half teaspoon to a cup of rice or cous cous while cooking to transcend the ordinary. My favorite way to use ras el hanout is as a spice rub on lamb chops grilled on the BBQ (I will have a video of this up shortly).

This is my very, very simple recipe for the blend. There are others out there that have up to and more than 30 items in them - this one is simple and works just fine for me!

1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground ginger
I teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander seeds
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

In a small bowl whisk together all ingredients until combined well. The spice blend keeps in an airtight container at cool room temperature 1 month.

Bon Appetit...

~Nikko

Smoked Chicken Wings

What better to eat on the 4th than smoked chicken wings. I decided on wings and it was a good idea to throw them on the smoker. This was a very easy process. I went to the market and bought some wings. I washed them and cut off the nubs off the end of the wings. I created the rub for these and they turned out really dang good. I go to Fast Boys and have their grilled wings every once and a while - they're really dang good - mine turned out better! It's a nice change to have them in the smoker - it really brings out a nice flavor.

Rub:
Paprika
chipotle pepper powder
jalapeno pepper powder
cayenne pepper powder
granulated garlic
shallot salt
white pepper
black pepper

So mix up the spices - coat the wings well and smoke for about 2 hours or so - or until done to your liking.

Bon Appetit...

~Nikko

Coriander Paprika Spice Rub

Coriander Paprika Spice Rub

1 Tsp ground Coriander
1/2 Tsp paprika
1/4 Tsp salt
1/4 Tsp ground black pepper

Yes it's simple but toss it with some shrimp and you'll instantly see the WOW factor reach up and smack you right in the kisser... It works well tossed with just boiled shrimp, put on the shrimp then grilled or cooked in a pan... Just try it, you'll like it...

Bon Appetit...

~Nikko

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