aromatic Recipes
46 delicious aromatic recipes from around the world
Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage)
An aromatic and flavorful grilled sausage, a specialty from the Chiang Mai region of Northern Thailand, featuring vibrant notes of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime.
Sha Jiang Ji (Sand Ginger Chicken)
A classic Cantonese comfort dish featuring tender chicken braised in a clay pot with the uniquely fragrant sand ginger (galangal). This method allows the chicken to cook in its own juices, resulting in a deeply flavorful and aromatic meal.
Shui Zhu Yu (Sichuan Boiled Fish)
Shui Zhu Yu, or Sichuan Boiled Fish, is a quintessential Sichuan dish where tender slices of fish are gently poached in a fiery, aromatic broth, then dramatically finished with a cascade of sizzling hot oil infused with dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns. Despite its intimidating appearance, the flavor is incredibly complex and satisfying.
Sop Kambing (Indonesian Goat Soup)
A deeply flavorful and aromatic Indonesian goat soup, often enjoyed as comforting street food. This recipe focuses on tenderizing the goat and infusing it with a rich blend of spices for a warming and satisfying meal.
Soto Ayam
A fragrant and comforting Indonesian chicken soup, characterized by its vibrant turmeric-yellow broth, tender shredded chicken, and a medley of noodles and fresh vegetables. A true taste of Indonesian home cooking.
Tom Kha Gai
A fragrant and creamy Thai coconut chicken soup, featuring the distinct aromatic notes of galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. It's a comforting and milder counterpart to the fiery Tom Yum soup.
Tom Klong Pla Krob (Thai Sour Soup with Crispy Dried Fish)
A deeply flavorful and tangy Thai soup featuring crispy fried dried fish, smoky charred aromatics, and a distinct sour profile. Unlike Tom Yum, it relies on dried ingredients and a different flavor base.
Tom Yum Goong
Thailand's iconic hot and sour soup with succulent shrimp, fragrant lemongrass, pungent galangal, and aromatic kaffir lime leaves. This version focuses on a clear, intensely flavored broth.
Vegetable Biryani
A fragrant and flavorful layered rice dish featuring tender mixed vegetables simmered in aromatic spices, layered with partially cooked basmati rice, and finished with saffron-infused milk and ghee. A true vegetarian feast.
Guiso Criollo (Venezuelan Sofrito Base)
A fundamental Venezuelan sofrito base made with ripe tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and garlic. This aromatic mixture is the foundation for countless traditional dishes, adding depth and flavor.
Berbere Spice Blend
Ethiopia's signature spice blend, Berbere, is a complex, aromatic, and often fiery mix essential for many Ethiopian dishes. This recipe provides a foundational version that can be adjusted to your preference.
Berbere Spice Mix
The essential Ethiopian spice blend, known for its complex aroma, vibrant color, and distinctive heat. This homemade version allows for customization of spice levels and freshness.
Cape Malay Lamb Curry
Aromatic and fragrant, this mild Cape Malay lamb curry is a comforting classic. Slow-cooked lamb becomes incredibly tender, infused with a symphony of spices and the unique aroma of curry leaves.
Gomen (Ethiopian Collard Greens)
A classic Ethiopian vegetarian and vegan side dish featuring tender collard greens sautéed with aromatic spices. Traditionally enjoyed during fasting periods, it's also a delicious accompaniment to many meals.
Kikil (Ethiopian Lamb Soup)
A comforting and mild Ethiopian lamb soup, fragrant with ginger and garlic. This version focuses on the pure flavors of the lamb and aromatics, without the addition of berbere spice.
Lamb Tagine with Apricots and Almonds
A classic Moroccan slow-cooked stew featuring tender lamb shoulder, sweet dried apricots, crunchy toasted almonds, and a fragrant blend of warming spices. Traditionally cooked in a tagine pot, this dish offers a beautiful balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Nigerian Pepper Soup
A deeply aromatic and invigorating spicy broth, traditionally made with goat meat or catfish, celebrated nationwide for its warming and healing properties.
Niter Kibbeh (Ethiopian Spiced Clarified Butter)
Niter Kibbeh is a staple in Ethiopian cuisine, a deeply fragrant, spiced clarified butter that forms the flavor base for countless dishes. Its rich aroma and extended shelf life make it an essential ingredient.
Poulet Yassa (Senegalese Lemon Chicken)
A vibrant and flavorful Senegalese dish featuring chicken marinated in a tangy blend of lemon juice, mustard, and onions, then grilled to smoky perfection before being braised into a rich, aromatic stew. The sweetness of caramelized onions and the briny pop of olives complete this classic.
Seffa (Moroccan Sweet Couscous)
Seffa is a classic Moroccan sweet couscous dish, often served as a celebratory dessert. Fluffy steamed couscous is tossed with butter and fragrant orange blossom water, then generously topped with toasted almonds, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It's a beautiful and aromatic dish perfect for special occasions.
Tagine Djaj M'qualli (Moroccan Chicken Tagine with Olives and Preserved Lemon)
A classic Moroccan chicken tagine featuring tender chicken simmered in an aromatic sauce with briny olives and the unique, tangy flavor of preserved lemon. This dish is traditionally cooked in a tagine pot, but a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid will also work.
Tibs
A classic Ethiopian dish of quickly sautéed meat, often beef or lamb, with vegetables and aromatics, known for its vibrant flavors and often served sizzling. This recipe focuses on a simple, yet delicious, home-style preparation.