Spicy Salt and Grilling: Adding Heat to Your BBQ

Spicy salt and grilling go hand in hand, and for good reason. Grilling is a cooking technique that imparts a smoky and charred flavor to food, and spicy salt adds heat and flavor to any dish. Combining the two creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave you wanting more. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of using spicy salt while grilling, some delicious recipes to try, and tips on how to get the most out of your spicy salt and grilling experience.

What is Spicy Salt?

Spicy salt is a mixture of salt and spices that add heat and flavor to any dish. The spices used in spicy salt can vary depending on personal preference, but some common ingredients include cayenne pepper, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. The salt used in the mixture can also vary, but coarse sea salt or kosher salt are popular choices.

Spicy salt can be used in a variety of ways, from adding flavor to simple dishes like grilled vegetables or chicken to elevating more complex dishes like tacos or stir-fries. It's a versatile seasoning that can be used in many different cuisines, from Mexican to Indian to Thai.

The Benefits of Using Spicy Salt While Grilling

Using spicy salt while grilling has several benefits: 

1. First and foremost, it adds flavor and heat to your food, taking your grilling game to the next level. The smoky flavor of grilled meat and vegetables pairs perfectly with the heat and flavor of spicy salt, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth.
2. In addition to adding flavor, spicy salt can also help tenderize meat. Salt is a natural tenderizer, and when combined with spices, it can help break down the fibers in meat, making it more tender and juicy.
3. Spicy salt is also a healthier alternative to traditional BBQ sauces and marinades. Many BBQ sauces and marinades are high in sugar and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. Spicy salt, on the other hand, is low in calories and sugar, making it a healthier choice for those looking to watch their weight or maintain a healthy diet.
4. Finally, using spicy salt while grilling is a simple and easy way to add flavor to your food. You don't need to spend hours marinating or preparing complicated sauces - simply sprinkle some spicy salt on your meat or vegetables before grilling, and you're good to go.

Spicy Salt in African Cuisine

Spicy salt is a popular seasoning in many African cuisines. The use of spices and herbs is an integral part of African cooking, and spicy salt is a versatile seasoning that can be used in a variety of dishes.

In West Africa, spicy salt is commonly used to season grilled meats, such as suya, a spicy skewered beef dish popular in Nigeria. The salt is often mixed with a combination of spices, including cumin, coriander, and paprika, to create a complex and flavorful seasoning blend.

In East Africa, spicy salt is used to season grilled meats, but it is also used in a variety of other dishes. In Ethiopia, a spicy salt called mitmita is often used to season stews and soups, as well as to flavor traditional breads like injera. Mitmita is made with a blend of spices, including chili peppers, cardamom, and cloves, and is known for its intense heat and flavor.

In North Africa, spicy salt is often used to season traditional dishes like couscous and tagine. Harissa, a popular North African spice paste made with chili peppers, garlic, and other spices, is often mixed with salt to create a spicy seasoning that can be used to flavor a variety of dishes.

Spicy salt is also commonly used in South African cuisine, where it is often used to season grilled meats and vegetables. In South Africa, a popular spicy salt blend called peri-peri is made with a combination of chili peppers, garlic, and lemon juice, and is used to season chicken, beef, and other meats.

Overall, spicy salt is an important seasoning in many African cuisines, adding heat and flavor to a wide range of dishes. Its versatility and simplicity make it a popular choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Try Our Spicy Salts

African Dream Foods also 3 spicy salt blends that are perfect for grilling: Smoked Chipotle Salt, Habanero Salt and Ghost Pepper Salt.

Smoked Chipotle Salt

Smoked chipotle salt is made with sea salt and dried, smoked chipotle peppers. The smoky flavor of the peppers pairs perfectly with the salt, creating a bold and flavorful seasoning that is perfect for grilled meats and vegetables.

This blend is not as spicy as some of the others, but it still adds a nice kick of heat to any dish.

Habanero Chilli Salt

If you are looking for a little more heat, African Dream Foods Habanero Chilli Salt is perfect for adding a spicy kick to a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, soups, stews, and more. It can be used as a dry rub for meats or added to marinades for an extra burst of flavor and heat.

One of the great things about African Dream Foods Habanero Chilli Salt is that it is made with all-natural ingredients and contains no added preservatives or fillers. It is also vegan-friendly and gluten-free, making it a versatile seasoning that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people with dietary restrictions.

When using African Dream Foods Habanero Chilli Salt, it's important to keep in mind that a little goes a long way. This spicy seasoning is very potent and can easily overpower a dish if too much is added. It's best to start with a small amount and add more gradually, tasting as you go, until you reach your desired level of heat.

Ghost Pepper Salt

For those who love extreme heat, African Dream Foods' Ghost Pepper Salt is a must-try. Ghost peppers are one of the hottest peppers in the world, and this salt is made with a blend of sea salt and dried ghost peppers. It is not for the faint of heart, but for those who can handle the heat, it is a delicious and flavorful seasoning that adds a serious kick to any dish.

Our Smoked Chipotle Salt, Habanero Chilli Salt and Ghost Pepper Salt blends are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. They are a great way to add a little extra heat and flavor to any dish, and they are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves spicy food.

Overall, African Dream Foods' line of spicy salts is a great choice for anyone looking to add some heat and flavor to their grilling. Their unique blends are inspired by the flavors of Africa and are made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that every dish is bursting with flavor. Whether you prefer a mild kick or an extreme level of heat, African Dream Foods has a spicy salt blend that is sure to satisfy your cravings.

FAQ

Can I use spicy salt on vegetables?
Absolutely! Spicy salt is a versatile seasoning that can be used on a wide range of dishes, including vegetables. Simply sprinkle some on your vegetables before grilling or roasting, and enjoy the extra kick of heat and flavor.

How much spicy salt should I use?
The amount of spicy salt you use will depend on your personal preference and the size of the dish you are seasoning. It's best to start with a small amount and add more gradually, tasting as you go, until you reach your desired level of heat and flavor.

Are spicy salts healthier than other seasoning blends?
Spicy salts can be a healthier option than other seasoning blends that contain added sugars and preservatives. However, it's important to check the ingredients list to make sure there are no added fillers or additives.

Can I make my own spicy salt blend?
Absolutely! Making your own spicy salt blend is easy and fun. Simply mix together sea salt with your favorite spices and herbs, such as chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Experiment with different spice combinations until you find your perfect blend.

Can I use spicy salt on seafood?
Yes, spicy salt can be a delicious seasoning for seafood dishes, such as grilled shrimp or fish. Just be sure to adjust the amount of salt and spice based on the type of seafood you are using and your personal preference.

Can Spicy Salt Expire?

Like most spices and seasonings, spicy salt can expire over time. However, its shelf life can vary depending on factors such as how it is stored and whether it contains any added preservatives.

Most commercially produced spicy salt blends will have a best-by date printed on the packaging. This date is a good guideline for when the product is likely to start losing its flavor and potency, but it does not necessarily mean that the product is no longer safe to use.

If you are using homemade spicy salt, it is important to store it in an airtight container away from light and moisture to help prolong its shelf life. Generally, homemade spicy salt should be used within six months to a year for best results.

Over time, spicy salt can lose its potency and flavor, so it's a good idea to regularly check the product for any signs of spoilage, such as a change in color, texture, or smell. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the product and replace it with a fresh batch.

In summary, while spicy salt can expire over time, its shelf life can vary depending on a number of factors. Always check the packaging or homemade mixture for a best-by date, and store the product in an airtight container away from light and moisture. Regularly check for signs of spoilage and discard the product if it appears to be expired.

To Wrap Up 

Adding spicy salt to your grilling is a great way to take your BBQ game to the next level. Not only does it add a delicious kick of heat and flavor to your dishes, but it also allows you to experiment with different seasoning blends and spice combinations to create unique and flavorful dishes.

African cuisine is particularly rich in spicy salt blends, which are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to stews and soups. Companies like African Dream Foods are bringing these flavors to the world, with their unique blends that are inspired by the flavors of Africa.

So whether you prefer a mild kick or an extreme level of heat, there is a spicy salt blend out there that is perfect for you. Experiment with different blends and spice combinations, and get creative with your grilling to create dishes that are bursting with flavor and heat.