Piripiri

Authentic Piripiri Recipe from Mozambique | Spicy Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: Africa, Mozambique | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Piripiri is a spicy marinade and basting sauce that originates from Africa, specifically Mozambique and Angola. It is commonly used to flavor meat and seafood before grilling or roasting. The combination of cayenne pepper, garlic, lemon, and oil creates a flavorful and aromatic dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

History

Piripiri sauce gets its name from the African bird's-eye chili pepper, also known as piri piri. This small, fiery pepper is a staple in African cuisine and is used to add heat and flavor to dishes. The marinade and basting sauce have been passed down through generations in African households, with each family adding their own twist to the recipe.

Ingredients

4 red peppers, crushed or 2 heaping teaspoons of cayenne pepper
0.25 tsp of salt
juice of 2 medium-sized lemons
2 cloves of garlic, crushed
6 sprigs of parsley, chopped
1 cup of butter or oil

How to prepare

To prepare the marinade, combine all the ingredients except butter in a bowl with meat or seafood.
Stir well to ensure that each piece is coated.
If you plan to cook within a couple of hours, let the mixture sit at room temperature. Otherwise, cover and refrigerate.
For optimal flavor blending, marinate overnight.
To create a basting sauce, combine all the ingredients, including the butter.
If there is leftover liquid from the marinade, it can be used for basting. However, you may need to add a bit more of each ingredient in similar proportions.
For a table sauce to accompany the cooked meat, prepare a fresh mixture of all the ingredients and gently heat for five minutes before serving.
For a variation when basting chicken, replace the lemon juice with 1 cup of coconut milk.

Variations

Add a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
Use different herbs such as cilantro or mint for a unique flavor profile.
Substitute the cayenne pepper with smoked paprika for a smoky twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinate the meat or seafood overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

- Use fresh lemon juice for a bright and tangy taste.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Baste the meat or seafood with the sauce while cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Piripiri-marinated meat or seafood with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. It pairs well with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.

Cooking Techniques

Grill the meat or seafood over high heat for a charred and smoky flavor. Baste with the Piripiri sauce while cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil or avocado oil instead of vegetable oil.

- Substitute the cayenne pepper with red pepper flakes for a milder heat.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the Piripiri sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Marinate the meat or seafood overnight for maximum flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Piripiri-marinated meat or seafood on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Drizzle with extra sauce for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Piripiri-marinated meat or seafood with a side of couscous, grilled corn, or roasted potatoes. It also pairs well with a side of coleslaw or pickled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Piripiri sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently in a saucepan before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Piripiri contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Piripiri contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Piripiri contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Piripiri contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Piripiri is rich in Vitamin C from the cayenne pepper and lemon juice. It also contains minerals such as potassium and iron.

Alergens

Piripiri may contain allergens such as garlic and lemon. Please check for any specific allergies before consuming.

Summary

Piripiri is a flavorful marinade and basting sauce that is low in carbohydrates and protein but high in fats. It is a great addition to grilled or roasted meat and seafood dishes.

Summary

Piripiri is a spicy and flavorful marinade and basting sauce that adds a kick to grilled or roasted meat and seafood dishes. With a combination of cayenne pepper, garlic, lemon, and oil, this African-inspired dish is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the bold flavors and aromatic spices of Piripiri at your next barbecue or dinner party.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Piripiri. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. The air was filled with the aromas of garlic, herbs, and spices as she prepared a mouthwatering dish that she simply called Piripiri.

Maria was a master in the kitchen, and I had always been in awe of her cooking skills. She had a way of combining flavors that was truly magical, and I had been begging her for months to teach me the secrets behind her delicious dishes.

As I watched her move around the kitchen with grace and ease, I couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy. How could someone be so talented in the culinary arts? I longed to be able to create meals that would leave my loved ones speechless, just like Maria did.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Maria turned to me with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "Would you like to learn how to make Piripiri?" she asked, a smile playing on her lips. My heart skipped a beat as I nodded eagerly, unable to contain my excitement.

And so, Maria began to teach me the ancient recipe for Piripiri that had been passed down through generations in her family. She explained that Piripiri was a traditional dish from her homeland in Portugal, a fiery and flavorful marinade that could be used on anything from meat to vegetables.

The key to the Piripiri recipe, Maria explained, was the use of fresh ingredients and a careful balance of spices. She showed me how to combine garlic, onion, chili peppers, paprika, and a splash of vinegar to create a bright and bold marinade that would elevate any dish to new heights.

As I watched Maria work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and admiration. She moved with such confidence and precision, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that with the skill of a master chef. I knew then and there that I was in the presence of a true culinary genius.

After hours of chopping, mixing, and simmering, the Piripiri marinade was finally ready. Maria poured it over a platter of grilled chicken wings, the rich aroma filling the air and tantalizing my senses. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of our labor.

As I took my first bite of the Piripiri chicken wings, I was transported to a world of flavor and spice that I had never experienced before. The marinade was a symphony of tastes and textures, each bite a delight for the senses. I savored every morsel, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook.

From that day on, Piripiri became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think back to that fateful day in Maria's kitchen and smile, grateful for the gift of her friendship and culinary wisdom.

Years passed, and I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes and flavors. But no matter how many dishes I created, Piripiri remained a favorite among my loved ones. Its fiery heat and bold flavors never failed to impress, and I knew that I owed it all to Maria and her generous spirit.

Today, as I prepare a batch of Piripiri for a family barbecue, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. The memories of that day in Maria's kitchen are still fresh in my mind, a reminder of the power of friendship and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

As I take a bite of the Piripiri chicken wings, I am once again transported to a world of flavor and spice, a world that Maria introduced me to all those years ago. And as I savor the taste of the marinade, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons she taught me and the memories we shared. Piripiri will always hold a special place in my heart, a symbol of friendship, love, and the joy of cooking.