Merkén (Mapuche smoked chilli blend)

A Chilean Mapuche seasoning of lightly smoked red chilli ground with coriander seeds and salt, brick-red, with a smoky aroma, in meat, fish, soups and stews.

Merkén (Mapuche smoked chilli blend) is a Chilean seasoning of the Mapuche people of lightly smoked and dried red chilli (ají cacho de cabra) ground with toasted coriander seeds, salt and sometimes cumin and oregano, brick-red, with a moderate heat, a pronounced smoky aroma and a light coriander note. It is added to meat, fish, legumes, soups, stews, sauces, vegetables, eggs and bread and used as a table condiment.

Recipes with this ingredient

Salmon fried with seaweed, zucchini and wheat grainsLatin American cuisine | Main courses

This exquisite Latin American recipe combines a richness of flavors and textures, creating a harmonious dish with subtle sea notes. Salmon coated with a crispy layer of kochayuyo seaweed and aromatic sage retains its juiciness and tender texture, while the light spiciness of merkén adds distinctive depth to the flavor. A side of roasted zucchini with a creamy sauce made from mote wheat grains, tomatoes, and goat cheese brings a soft creaminess and pleasant graininess. This dish reflects the culinary heritage of the region where seafood is paired with local grains and vegetables, creating a warm, rich taste. Perfect for festive dinners and gourmets who appreciate unusual combinations and texture balance.

Marinated pork loin with tomato and pearl onion confitLatin American cuisine | Main courses

Marinated pork loin with tomato confit and pearl onions is a refined dish of Latin American cuisine that combines rich flavors and aromas. The pork, marinated in a blend of spices, oregano, and wine vinegar, becomes tender with a rich, tangy taste. It is complemented by tomato confit with pearl onions—a slowly roasted composition that reveals the natural sweetness of the ingredients. The light acidity of the tomatoes, the aroma of fresh herbs, and the softness of the onions create a harmonious combination with the meat. This dish is perfect for both festive dinners and cozy family gatherings. Serving it with confit makes each portion especially juicy and appetizing. Inspired by Latin American culinary traditions, it captivates with its simplicity and elegance.

Chilled Avocado and Celery Soup with King Crab and Red Basil SaladLatin American cuisine | Soups

This chilled avocado and celery soup is the embodiment of freshness and sophistication, inspired by the rich traditions of Latin American cuisine. Its velvety texture and delicate flavor are revealed through the combination of creamy avocado, crunchy celery, and aromatic vegetable broth. The dish's brightness is enhanced by an exquisite salad of royal crab, infused with lemon juice and basil olive oil. A light spiciness from merkén harmoniously complements the sea notes, creating a complex palette of flavors. This dish is perfect for summer days when you crave something refreshing yet nourishing. Its presentation, adorned with crossed crab claws and basil greens, turns each plate into a work of art. Enjoy this culinary masterpiece as it transports you to the exotic corners of South America.

180

Salmon ceviche with quinoa and merken seasoningLatin American cuisine | Appetizers

Salmon ceviche with quinoa and merken spice is a delightful dish from Latin American cuisine that combines the freshness of fish, the spiciness of merken, and the tender texture of quinoa. This recipe is inspired by traditional South American ceviches but enriched with quinoa for added nutrition. The salmon is marinated in lemon juice with merken and olive oil, acquiring a tangy flavor. The quinoa and mote salad, complemented by tomatoes and cilantro, makes the dish harmonious and balanced. An exquisite presentation with lettuce leaves and lemon dressing highlights the freshness and brightness of the flavor, making it an ideal choice for both a light dinner and special occasions. This dish not only pleases the eye but also offers unforgettable gastronomic experiences.

Ceviche with tuna and shellfishLatin American cuisine | Appetizers

Tuna and mollusk ceviche is a refined dish of Latin American cuisine that embodies the freshness of seafood and rich flavor nuances. This recipe is rooted in the culture of coastal regions where fish is prepared without heat treatment, marinated in citrus juice. Tender cubes of tuna combined with firm strips of mollusks gain brightness from lemon juice, olive oil, and aromatic coriander. The light spiciness of merkén gives the dish a unique character. Grilled onion adds a sweet smoky note, while corn and watercress refresh the texture. This dish not only beautifully reveals the taste of fresh seafood but is also perfect for a light dinner or festive table, impressing with its elegance and harmony.