Merkén-Spiced Turkey Rub
A delicious way to elevate your holiday turkey is by using a Merkén-spiced rub, which infuses the meat with a smoky, spicy flavor profile characteristic of traditional Chilean cuisine. Merkén, a smoked chili pepper blend, pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of turkey, resulting in a festive dish that will impress your guests.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Paprika |
2 tablespoons |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 tablespoon |
| Brown sugar |
1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder |
1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder |
1 teaspoon |
| Salt |
1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper |
1 teaspoon |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
| Fresh rosemary |
1 tablespoon, chopped |
Cooking Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine all the dry ingredients (paprika, Merkén, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper).
- Add the olive oil and chopped rosemary to the dry mixture, stirring until it forms a paste.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the turkey, ensuring to cover all surfaces.
- Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook your turkey according to your preferred method and enjoy a uniquely flavorful holiday meal!
Smoky Mashed Potatoes With Merkén
Smoky Mashed Potatoes With Merkén is a delicious and comforting side dish that brings a unique twist to traditional mashed potatoes. The addition of Merkén not only imparts a smoky flavor but also adds a hint of warmth and spice that complements your holiday spread beautifully. This dish is easy to prepare and will impress your guests with its distinctive taste.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Potatoes |
2 pounds, peeled and cubed |
| Butter |
4 tablespoons |
| Milk |
1 cup (or more for desired creaminess) |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 teaspoon |
| Salt |
to taste |
| Black pepper |
to taste |
| Fresh chives (optional) |
for garnish |
Cooking Instructions:
- Boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add butter and milk to the pot, mashing the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the Merkén, salt, and black pepper, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives if desired. Enjoy your flavorful smoky mashed potatoes!
Merkén-Infused Green Bean Casserole
Merkén-Infused Green Bean Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic green bean casserole, bringing a deliciously smoky flavor to the holiday table. This dish is packed with fresh green beans, a creamy mushroom sauce, and a sprinkle of Merkén, making it a unique and savory side that complements any holiday feast.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Fresh green beans |
1 pound, trimmed |
| Cream of mushroom soup |
1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Milk |
½ cup |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 teaspoon |
| French fried onions |
1 cup |
| Salt |
to taste |
| Black pepper |
to taste |
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the fresh green beans for 3 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, Merkén, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
- In a large baking dish, combine the blanched green beans with the mushroom mixture, stirring to coat evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, then remove from the oven and top with French fried onions.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the onions are golden and crispy. Serve warm and enjoy the smoky, creamy goodness!
Roasted Sweet Potatoes With Merkén
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Merkén is a flavorful and colorful side dish that beautifully combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smoky, spicy kick of Merkén. This dish not only brings vibrant colors to your holiday table but also boasts a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your family and guests. Perfect for any festive occasion, these roasted sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit!
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Sweet potatoes |
2 pounds, peeled and cubed |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 tablespoon |
| Salt |
to taste |
| Black pepper |
to taste |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) |
optional |
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, Merkén, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy the wonderful blend of sweet and smoky flavors!
Merkén and Maple Glazed Carrots
Merkén and Maple Glazed Carrots is a delightful side dish that combines the earthiness of sweet carrots with the warmth of maple syrup and the smoky heat of Merkén. This dish not only adds a beautiful pop of orange to your holiday table but also offers a unique flavor profile that balances sweetness and spice. It’s perfect for complementing roasts and other festive dishes, ensuring your meal is memorable and enjoyable.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Carrots (peeled and sliced) |
1 pound |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
| Maple syrup |
3 tablespoons |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 teaspoon |
| Salt |
to taste |
| Black pepper |
to taste |
| Fresh thyme (for garnish) |
optional |
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, Merkén, salt, and black pepper until well-coated.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh thyme, and serve warm. Enjoy the sweet and smoky flavors!
Creamy Merkén Mushroom Risotto
Creamy Merkén Mushroom Risotto is a rich and comforting dish that showcases the earthy flavors of mushrooms enhanced by the smoky warmth of Merkén. This creamy risotto is perfect for holiday gatherings, providing a luscious side that pairs wonderfully with a range of festive mains, from roasted meats to vegetarian entrees. The addition of Merkén offers a unique taste that elevates this classic Italian dish, making it a standout item on your holiday table.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Arborio rice |
1 cup |
| Vegetable or chicken broth |
4 cups |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
| Onion (finely chopped) |
1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) |
2 cloves |
| Mushrooms (sliced, any variety) |
8 ounces |
| White wine |
1/2 cup |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 teaspoon |
| Heavy cream |
1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) |
1/2 cup |
| Salt |
to taste |
| Black pepper |
to taste |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) |
optional |
Cooking Instructions:
- In a saucepan, heat the broth and keep it warm over low heat.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly toasted.
- Pour in the white wine and stir until it is mostly absorbed by the rice.
- Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
- Once the rice is al dente and creamy, stir in the Merkén, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy the creamy and smoky goodness!
Merkén-Spiced Cranberry Sauce
Merkén-Spiced Cranberry Sauce is a delightful twist on the traditional holiday condiment, infusing the classic tartness of cranberries with the smoky, aromatic flavors of Merkén. This sauce not only complements turkey and ham but also adds a unique depth to vegan options, making it a versatile addition to your holiday meals. Plus, it is quick and easy to prepare, ensuring you can focus on other festive dishes.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Fresh cranberries |
12 ounces |
| Sugar |
1 cup |
| Water |
1/2 cup |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 teaspoon |
| Orange juice |
1/4 cup |
| Orange zest |
1 teaspoon |
| Salt |
to taste |
Cooking Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine water and sugar, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the cranberries and reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Stir in Merkén, orange juice, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and adjust seasoning if desired.
- Remove from heat and let cool before serving. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and smokiness!
Smoky Brussels Sprouts With Merkén
Smoky Brussels Sprouts with Merkén is a delicious and simple side dish that adds a bold flavor profile to your holiday table. The nutritional goodness of Brussels sprouts combined with the unique smokiness of Merkén creates a dish that everybody will love, whether served alongside meats or in a vegetarian feast. This recipe allows the natural sweetness of the sprouts to shine through while keeping them perfectly crisp.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Brussels sprouts |
1 pound |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 teaspoon |
| Garlic (minced) |
2 cloves |
| Salt |
to taste |
| Black pepper |
to taste |
| Lemon juice |
1 tablespoon |
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, Merkén, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the sprouts evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through.
- Drizzle with lemon juice before serving. Enjoy!
Merkén and Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Merkén and Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob is a delectable and flavorful side dish that elevates the classic corn on the cob experience with the unique blend of Merkén, a traditional Chilean spice. The combination of rich garlic butter and the smoky, spicy notes of Merkén creates an irresistible treat that perfectly complements any holiday meal.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Fresh corn on the cob |
4 ears |
| Unsalted butter |
1/2 cup |
| Garlic (minced) |
3 cloves |
| Merkén spice blend |
2 teaspoons |
| Salt |
to taste |
| Lime juice |
1 tablespoon |
| Chopped fresh parsley |
for garnish (optional) |
Cooking Instructions:
- Boil the corn on the cob in salted water for about 5-7 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the Merkén spice blend and lime juice, mixing well.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the cooked corn on the cob.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, serve warm, and enjoy!
Rich Merkén Pumpkin Soup
Rich Merkén Pumpkin Soup is a comforting, vibrant dish that showcases the earthy sweetness of pumpkin, balanced with the smoky heat of Merkén. This soup is perfect for chilly holiday gatherings, providing a warm and satisfying option that is both nutritious and fragrant, sure to impress your guests.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Pumpkin (peeled and diced) |
4 cups |
| Onion (chopped) |
1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) |
2 cloves |
| Vegetable broth |
4 cups |
| Coconut milk |
1 can (13.5 oz) |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 tablespoon |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
| Salt |
to taste |
| Black pepper |
to taste |
| Chopped fresh cilantro |
for garnish (optional) |
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Stir in the diced pumpkin and cook for about 5 minutes, until slightly tender.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the pumpkin is fully cooked.
- Add coconut milk and Merkén spice blend. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) and puree the soup until smooth.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste, garnish with cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
Merkén-Crusted Baked Brie
Merkén-Crusted Baked Brie is a delightful holiday appetizer that combines the rich, creamy texture of baked Brie cheese with the smoky, spicy flavor of Merkén. This dish is not only visually appealing but also serves as an indulgent start to any festive gathering, guaranteed to delight your guests with its unique flavor profile.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Brie cheese (whole wheel) |
1 (8 oz) wheel |
| Merkén spice blend |
2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil |
1 tablespoon |
| Honey |
2 tablespoons |
| Chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds) |
¼ cup |
| Fresh thyme or rosemary |
for garnish (optional) |
| Crackers or baguette slices |
for serving |
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the Brie cheese on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix together the Merkén, olive oil, and chopped nuts to create a crust mixture.
- Spread the Merkén mixture over the top of the Brie, pressing slightly to adhere.
- Drizzle honey over the crusted Brie.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is gooey and the crust is slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm with crackers or baguette slices.
Spiced Merkén Stuffing
Spiced Merkén Stuffing is a flavorful and aromatic side dish that elevates any holiday meal. Combining traditional stuffing ingredients with the unique smoky heat of Merkén, this stuffing adds depth and character to your festive table. It pairs perfectly with turkey or roasted vegetables and is sure to impress your guests with its delightful seasoning.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Day-old bread (cubed) |
4 cups |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 tablespoon |
| Onion (chopped) |
1 medium |
| Celery (chopped) |
2 stalks |
| Garlic (minced) |
3 cloves |
| Vegetable or chicken broth |
2 cups |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) |
¼ cup |
| Salt |
to taste |
| Pepper |
to taste |
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion, celery, and garlic until softened.
- Stir in the Merkén spice blend and cook for an additional minute.
- In a large bowl, combine the day-old bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and broth. Mix until well combined and moist.
- Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Smoky Chalupa With Merkén
Smoky Chalupa With Merkén is a delicious and hearty dish that melds the flavors of traditional Mexican chalupa with the smoky, spicy goodness of Merkén. This unique combination offers a delightful twist that will warm your holiday gatherings, making it a perfect main or side dish. Served atop crispy corn tortillas and topped with your favorite garnishes, this chalupa is sure to be a hit at your festive feast.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Corn tortillas |
8 |
| Ground beef or turkey |
1 pound |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 tablespoon |
| Onion (chopped) |
1 medium |
| Bell pepper (chopped) |
1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) |
2 cloves |
| Canned black beans (drained) |
1 can (15 oz) |
| Tomato (diced) |
1 medium |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
| Fresh cilantro (chopped) |
¼ cup |
| Lime (juiced) |
1 |
| Salt |
to taste |
| Pepper |
to taste |
Cooking Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, cooking until browned. Stir in the Merkén spice blend.
- Mix in the black beans and diced tomato, cooking until heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Meanwhile, lightly toast the corn tortillas in a separate pan until crispy.
- Assemble the chalupas by spooning the smoky meat mixture over the tortillas and garnishing with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Smoky Chalupa With Merkén!
Merkén Chocolate Chip Cookies
Merkén Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy, bringing a unique flavor twist to the classic cookie favorite. The addition of Merkén, a Chilean spice blend made from smoked chili peppers, complements the rich chocolate and buttery dough, resulting in a cookie that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. These cookies will surprise and delight your taste buds, offering a fun and warm treat during the festive season.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Unsalted butter |
¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) |
| Brown sugar |
½ cup |
| Granulated sugar |
½ cup |
| Egg |
1 large |
| Vanilla extract |
1 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour |
1 ¾ cups |
| Baking soda |
1 teaspoon |
| Salt |
½ teaspoon |
| Merkén spice blend |
1 teaspoon |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips |
1 cup |
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and Merkén spice blend. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Merkén Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Spiced Apple Tart With Merkén
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Pie crust |
1 (store-bought or homemade) |
| Apples (peeled, cored, sliced) |
4 medium |
| Granulated sugar |
¾ cup |
| Ground cinnamon |
1 teaspoon |
| Merkén spice blend |
½ teaspoon |
| Lemon juice |
1 tablespoon |
| Butter |
2 tablespoons (diced) |
| Egg (beaten for egg wash) |
1 |
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a tart pan, trimming any excess.
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, Merkén, and lemon juice until combined.
- Arrange the apple mixture evenly over the crust and dot with diced butter.
- Brush the edges of the crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Spiced Apple Tart With Merkén!
