Berber Spicy Red Pepper Paste Recipe

Ignite your taste buds with this authentic Berber Spicy Red Pepper Paste! Inspired by a 2005 African culinary adventure, this vibrant paste bursts with warm spices and fiery peppers. Perfect for tagines, stews, marinades, and more, this recipe is your shortcut to incredible North African flavor. Easy to make and even easier to love!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 36.7 kcal
Protein 2g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Berber Spicy Red Pepper Paste 28

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Berber Spicy Red Pepper Paste

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How to Make Berber Spicy Red Pepper Paste

  1. Toast 1 tbsp ginger, 1 tsp cardamom pods, 1 tbsp coriander seeds, 1 tsp fenugreek seeds, ½ tsp nutmeg, 6 cloves, 1 cinnamon stick, and ½ tsp allspice berries in a heavy skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant.
  2. Remove from heat and let spices cool completely.
  3. Combine the toasted spices, 1 medium onion (chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp salt, and ½ cup dry red wine in a food processor or blender. Process until a smooth paste forms.
  4. (Alternative) Pound the spice mixture in a large mortar and pestle until a smooth paste forms.
  5. In the same heavy skillet, combine 2 tbsp paprika, 1-2 red chili peppers (finely chopped, adjust to your spice preference), ½ tsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp salt.
  6. Toast over low heat for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  7. Slowly whisk in ½ cup water.
  8. Add the spice paste from step 3 or 4.
  9. Cook, stirring vigorously, over low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  10. Transfer the Berber paste to a clean jar or crock.
  11. Once cooled to room temperature, cover the surface of the paste with a thin layer of olive oil.
  12. Replenish the oil layer after each use to preserve freshness.
  13. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

19 g

Sugar

4g

Fat

1g

Carbs

1g