📍 Where this dish comes from: Pernambuco · Historic Olinda
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Tempero baiano is a warm, earthy spice mix sold in markets across Brazil and used in stews, meats, fish and beans. Recipes vary from family to family, but cumin, black pepper, oregano and turmeric are almost always in the blend. It is naturally sugar-free.

Servings: 1 about 1/3 cup
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 bay leaves crumbled and ground
Instructions
- Grind the bay leaves to a powder in a spice grinder or mortar.
- Mix all the spices together in a small bowl until the color is even.
- Store in an airtight jar away from light for up to 6 months.
Notes
Tip: Rub 1 teaspoon of tempero baiano with salt and garlic into chicken or pork before grilling, or stir a pinch into soups and stews in the last minutes of cooking.
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This recipe is from The Ultimate Brazilian Keto Cookbook by Gisele Costello, Chapter 10: Sauces & Condiments (Historic Olinda). See all Brazilian recipes