Spicy Scallion Paste Recipe

This spicy scallion paste is a versatile condiment that can add a kick to any dish. Made with fresh scallions, garlic, chile, and a hint of lemon zest, it's a simple recipe that packs a punch. Whether you're looking to spice up your grilled chicken, add some heat to your stir-fry, or simply want a new dip for your chips, this spicy scallion paste is a must-try.

Photos of Spicy Scallion Paste Recipe

The key ingredient that might not be readily available in your kitchen is the fresh hot chile. While there are many types of chiles available in the supermarket, for this recipe, a fresh hot red chile like a serrano or jalapeno would work best. It's recommended to taste the chile before adding it to the paste to get the right level of heat you're comfortable with.

Spicy Scallion Paste Ingredients

Scallions: These are the stars of the recipe providing a unique and pungent flavor.

Garlic: Adds a depth of flavor to the paste. Fresh is best in this recipe.

Fresh hot chile: This is where the spice comes in. You can adjust the quantity based on your heat tolerance.

Lemon zest: Brings a hint of freshness and tanginess to the paste.

Cayenne pepper: Adds an extra kick of heat and enhances the overall flavor.

Extra virgin olive oil: Helps to bring all the flavors together and adds a smooth texture to the paste.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the paste and adds seasoning.

One reader, Karmen Zapata says:

This spicy scallion paste recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and the heat is just right. It adds a kick to my dishes and takes them to the next level. I love how versatile it is, and it's become a staple in my kitchen. Highly recommended!

Karmen Zapata

Techniques Required for Making Spicy Scallion Paste

How to prepare the scallions: Rinse the scallions under cold water and pat them dry. Trim off the root ends and any wilted parts. Cut off the dark green tops and reserve for another use, then thinly slice the white and light green parts.

How to mince the garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and finely mince them using a sharp knife. You can also use a garlic press if desired.

How to handle the hot chile: Wear gloves when handling the hot chile to avoid getting the oils on your skin. Cut the chile in half, remove the seeds and membrane, and finely chop the flesh.

How to zest the lemon: Use a microplane or fine grater to remove the outer yellow zest of the lemon, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith.

How to mix the paste: In a small bowl, combine the scallions, garlic, chile, lemon zest, and cayenne, mashing slightly with the back of a spoon.

How to season the paste: Stir in the olive oil and salt, adjusting the seasoning to taste if necessary.

How to store the paste: Transfer any leftover paste to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

How To Make Spicy Scallion Paste

Made with hot chile, cayenne pepper, and lemon zest, level up lamb chops or steaks with a spicy kick from this tastebuds awakening scallion paste.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4scallions
2clovesgarlic
1fresh hot chile
½tsplemon zest,finely grated
¼tspcayenne pepper
2tbspextra virgin olive oil
½tspsalt

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine the scallions with the garlic, chile, lemon zest, and cayenne, mashing slightly with the back of a spoon.
Stir in the olive oil and salt.
Lightly brush the paste onto the desired dish and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 286.72kcal
Fat: 27.42g
Saturated Fat: 3.79g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.74g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.05g
Carbohydrates: 10.77g
Fiber: 2.59g
Sugar: 3.93g
Protein: 2.39g
Sodium: 324.29mg
Calcium: 62.83mg
Potassium: 345.56mg
Iron: 1.65mg
Vitamin A: 60.99µg
Vitamin C: 79.45mg

Technique Tip for Spicy Scallion Paste Recipe

When making the spicy scallion paste, it's important to finely chop the scallions, garlic, and chile to ensure a smooth consistency. If you have a mortar and pestle, use it to mash the ingredients together. This not only helps to combine them, but also releases their flavors, making the paste more aromatic and flavorful. If you don't have a mortar and pestle, you can use the back of a spoon as suggested, but make sure to press hard enough to mash the ingredients.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spicy Scallion Paste

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes and cooking equipment for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: Make larger quantities and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals later.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and slow cookers to expedite meal preparation.

Plan meals: Create a weekly meal plan to organize your cooking schedule and minimize last-minute decisions.

Pre-cut produce: Purchase pre-cut vegetables and fruits to save time on prep work.

Follow recipes: Stick to tried and tested recipes to avoid unnecessary experimentation and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Scallion Paste Recipe

scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute for scallions in this recipe.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
fresh hot chile - Substitute with jalapeño: Jalapeño peppers provide a similar level of heat and flavor to the recipe.
lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest can provide a similar citrusy flavor to the dish.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can provide a milder heat and a slightly smoky flavor to the dish.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.

Presenting Spicy Scallion Paste

Elevate the dish with a stunning plating: When presenting the spicy scallion paste, consider using a sleek, white plate to allow the vibrant green color of the paste to pop. The contrast will make the dish visually appealing and appetizing.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a small spoon to delicately drizzle the spicy scallion paste in a circular or zigzag pattern on the plate. This technique adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some finely chopped cilantro or parsley over the spicy scallion paste to add a burst of freshness and a pop of color. The vibrant green hues will enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Consider using a quenelle: Instead of simply spreading the paste on the plate, use a quenelle technique to create a smooth, elegant shape. This refined presentation method will showcase your attention to detail and culinary expertise.
Add a touch of citrus: Grate a hint of fresh lemon zest over the dish just before serving. The citrus aroma and vibrant yellow zest will not only enhance the flavor but also add a visually appealing element to the presentation.
Use contrasting textures: Pair the spicy scallion paste with a crunchy element, such as a delicate crispy wafer or a lightly toasted baguette slice. The textural contrast will elevate the overall dining experience.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the dish with precision, ensuring that the components are evenly distributed on the plate. Creating a sense of balance and symmetry will demonstrate your attention to detail and culinary finesse.

Essential Tools for Making Spicy Scallion Paste

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for a variety of kitchen tasks, such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing them together.
Microplane grater: A kitchen tool used for grating ingredients like citrus zest, garlic, and hard cheeses.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting, spreading, or flipping ingredients.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush and mince garlic cloves.
Citrus juicer: A tool used to extract juice from citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges.
Mortar and pestle: A pair of tools used to crush, grind, and mix ingredients such as spices and herbs.

Storing and Freezing Spicy Scallion Paste

To store the spicy scallion paste, transfer it to an airtight container or jar with a tight-fitting lid. This will help prevent the paste from drying out and preserve its flavor and freshness.
Place the container of spicy scallion paste in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 1 week when stored properly in the fridge.
If you want to keep the spicy scallion paste for longer, you can freeze it. To do this, spoon the paste into an ice cube tray, filling each compartment about 2/3 full.
Place the ice cube tray in the freezer and allow the spicy scallion paste to freeze solid, which should take about 2-3 hours.
Once the spicy scallion paste cubes are frozen, pop them out of the ice cube tray and transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container.
Label the bag or container with the date and contents, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To use the frozen spicy scallion paste, simply remove the desired number of cubes from the freezer and allow them to thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Once thawed, use the paste immediately in your favorite recipes.
If you find that the thawed spicy scallion paste has separated or lost some of its texture, give it a quick stir or pulse it in a food processor to bring it back together before using.

How To Reheat Spicy Scallion Paste Leftovers

Reheat the spicy scallion paste in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until it's warmed through. This method ensures that the flavors meld together and the paste doesn't burn or dry out.
For a quick and easy reheat, place the desired amount of spicy scallion paste in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the garlic and scallions to become bitter.
If you're using the spicy scallion paste as a spread or topping, you can let it come to room temperature naturally. This allows the flavors to develop and makes it easier to spread on bread, crackers, or your favorite dish.
For a unique twist, try incorporating your leftover spicy scallion paste into a stir-fry or fried rice dish. The heat from the cooking process will warm up the paste and infuse your dish with a delightful kick of flavor.
If you have a large amount of leftover spicy scallion paste, consider portioning it out into smaller containers or an ice cube tray before freezing. This allows you to thaw and reheat only what you need, reducing waste and preserving the quality of the paste.

Random Fact About Spicy Scallion Paste

Scallions are also known as green onions or spring onions and are a great source of vitamins and antioxidants. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy addition to any dish.

Is Making Spicy Scallion Paste at Home Cost-Effective?

This spicy scallion paste recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The simple ingredients, such as scallions, garlic, and olive oil, are affordable and readily available. The versatility of this paste allows it to be used in various dishes, adding a burst of flavor. With a rating of 9/10, this recipe offers great value for its cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5, making it a budget-friendly option for enhancing the flavor of meat, vegetables, and more.

Is Spicy Scallion Paste Healthy or Unhealthy?

The spicy scallion paste recipe is relatively healthy, as it primarily consists of fresh ingredients like scallions, garlic, and chile. These ingredients offer various health benefits:

Scallions are rich in vitamins A and K, which support eye health and blood clotting, respectively
Garlic contains allicin, a compound with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
Fresh hot chiles contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and have pain-relieving effects

The recipe also includes lemon zest, providing a burst of citrus flavor and a small amount of vitamin C. The use of extra virgin olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats to the dish.

However, the recipe does contain a moderate amount of salt, which could be a concern for those watching their sodium intake. To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the salt content by half or use a low-sodium alternative like potassium chloride
Increase the number of scallions to boost the vegetable content and add more fiber
Experiment with adding other healthy ingredients, such as:
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added flavor and nutrients
- Grated ginger for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and unique taste
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra tanginess and vitamin C

By incorporating these changes, you can enhance the nutritional value of the spicy scallion paste while maintaining its bold and zesty flavor profile. The paste can be a delicious and healthy addition to various dishes, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables, adding a kick of spice and a depth of flavor.

Editor's Thoughts on Spicy Scallion Paste Recipe

This spicy scallion paste recipe is a delightful addition to any dish, offering a burst of vibrant flavors. The combination of scallions, garlic, and hot chile creates a harmonious balance of heat and freshness, while the lemon zest adds a zingy brightness. The cayenne pepper provides a subtle kick, complemented by the richness of the olive oil. This versatile paste can elevate a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables, adding a tantalizing depth of flavor. It's a simple yet impactful recipe that is sure to impress with its bold and aromatic profile.

Enhance Your Spicy Scallion Paste Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Shrimp: Marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice before grilling for a burst of flavor.

Roasted Vegetables: Toss a variety of colorful vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting to bring out their natural sweetness and caramelized edges.

Fruit Salad: Combine a mix of fresh fruits such as mango, pineapple, and berries with a drizzle of honey and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing and vibrant side dish.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Spicy Scallion Paste

Spicy Scallion Pancakes: Combine scallions, flour, and water to make a batter. Cook in a skillet until crispy and golden brown.

Garlic Butter Shrimp: Sauté shrimp in a mixture of butter, garlic, and lemon juice until cooked through and coated in a flavorful sauce.

Mango Salsa: Mix diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing and tangy salsa to serve with chips or on top of grilled fish or chicken.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair With Spicy Scallion Paste

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty citrus and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Mushroom Risotto: Create a creamy and indulgent mushroom risotto by slowly cooking the rice with flavorful broth and sautéed mushrooms. Finish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a comforting and satisfying dish.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a vibrant strawberry topping for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Have you tried making this Spicy Scallion Paste Recipe? Share your experience and any tips in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What can I use this spicy scallion paste for?

This spicy scallion paste is incredibly versatile. You can use it as a marinade for meats, a flavor booster for stir-fries, a topping for grilled vegetables, or a condiment for sandwiches and wraps. Get creative and experiment with different dishes to find your favorite way to use it!

How long can I store the spicy scallion paste?

You can store the spicy scallion paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure to give it a good stir before using it, as the oil may separate slightly during storage.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the paste?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of fresh hot chile or cayenne pepper in the recipe. On the other hand, if you love extra heat, feel free to increase the amount of chile or cayenne to suit your taste.

Is there a substitute for scallions if I don't have any on hand?

If you don't have scallions, you can use a combination of finely chopped onions and chives as a substitute. While it may not have the exact same flavor profile, it will still provide a delicious aromatic base for the paste.

Can I make this paste in advance?

Yes, you can definitely make this spicy scallion paste in advance. In fact, allowing the flavors to meld together for a few hours or overnight can enhance the overall taste. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.