12 Recipes to Spice Up Your Dinner Routine

Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? It’s time to turn up the heat and bring some excitement back to your meals! In this article, we present 12 mouth-watering recipes that will spice up your dinner and tantalize your taste buds. From Brazilian dishes to Korean flavors, these recipes are sure to add a burst of flavor to your dinner table.

Key Takeaways

• Moqueca Baiana is a flavorful Brazilian fish stew that combines coconut milk, tomatoes, and peppers.
• Jalapeño Citrus Salmon offers a zesty and spicy twist on a classic seafood dish.
• Jerk Chicken is a Caribbean favorite known for its spicy and aromatic marinade.
• Nashville Hot Chicken is perfect for those who love a fiery kick in their fried chicken.
• Spicy Thai Basil Chicken brings the bold flavors of Thai cuisine to your dinner table.

1. Moqueca Baiana (Brazilian Fish Stew)

If you’re searching for a fresh way to prepare fish, consider trying this Brazilian classic. Begin with a firm white fish like bass or snapper and let it simmer with bell peppers, fish broth, coconut milk, crushed tomatoes, and a variety of spices. This dish is a flavorful explosion that will surely elevate your dinner routine.

2. Jalapeño Citrus Salmon

This Jalapeño Citrus Salmon is a delightful blend of zesty and spicy flavors, perfect for a refreshing dinner. The recipe uses simple ingredients like oranges and limes, but you can also experiment with lemons, grapefruits, or blood oranges. For an extra kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeño. As the salmon bakes, the juices transform into a syrupy sauce, thanks to the honey, creating a perfect glaze over the fish.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets
• Oranges
• Limes
• Jalapeño
• Honey
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet.
3. Squeeze the juice of the oranges and limes over the salmon.
4. Slice the jalapeño and scatter over the salmon. Leave seeds in for more heat.
5. Drizzle honey over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and the glaze is syrupy.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad, making it a versatile addition to your dinner routine.

3. Jerk Chicken

Jerk Chicken is a quintessential Jamaican dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. The secret lies in the marinade, which typically includes allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers. This combination creates a spicy, aromatic profile that is both unique and irresistible.

Ingredients

• Chicken (preferably thighs or drumsticks)
• Allspice
• Thyme
• Scotch bonnet peppers
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Brown sugar
• Soy sauce
• Lime juice
• Green onions

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: Combine allspice, thyme, Scotch bonnet peppers, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, and green onions in a blender. Blend until smooth.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken in a large bowl or zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over it. Ensure the chicken is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Cook the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
4. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with rice and peas or a fresh salad.

This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of heat and want to try something new. The natural solution for a boring dinner routine, Jerk Chicken is both flavorful and satisfying.

4. Nashville Hot Chicken

Nashville Hot Chicken is a fiery and flavorful dish that will add a kick to your dinner routine. This Southern classic is known for its spicy, crispy coating and tender, juicy meat. The secret to its heat lies in the hot oil-based sauce that’s generously brushed over the fried chicken.

Ingredients

• Chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)
• Buttermilk
• Flour
• Cayenne pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Oil for frying
• Hot sauce

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours.
2. In a separate bowl, mix flour, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.
4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy, about 15-20 minutes.
6. In a small saucepan, heat some oil and mix in additional cayenne pepper and hot sauce to create the spicy coating.
7. Brush the hot oil mixture over the fried chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with pickles and white bread to balance the heat.
• Pair with classic Southern sides like coleslaw or macaroni and cheese.

For an extra touch, try serving with a side of garlic roasted vegetables or a homemade dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese. This dish is sure to impress and become a favorite in your household.

5. Tex-Mex Enchiladas

Tex-Mex Enchiladas are a delightful fusion of Texan and Mexican culinary traditions. These enchiladas are typically filled with seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or cheese, and then smothered in a rich, spicy sauce. The combination of flavors is sure to tantalize your taste buds and add a bit of excitement to your dinner routine.

Ingredients

• Corn tortillas
• Ground beef or shredded chicken
• Enchilada sauce
• Shredded cheese
• Chopped onions
• Sliced jalapeños
• Fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the ground beef or chicken in a skillet until fully cooked. Add chopped onions and cook until they are translucent.
3. Warm the corn tortillas in a microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.
4. Fill each tortilla with the cooked meat mixture and roll them up tightly.
5. Place the rolled tortillas in a baking dish and pour enchilada sauce over them.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese and sliced jalapeños on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

For an extra kick, try adding a bit of hot sauce to the enchilada sauce or using spicy ground beef. This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.

6. Spicy Thai Basil Chicken

Spicy Thai Basil Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Thai cuisine to your dinner table. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with fresh basil leaves and a spicy sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Serve it over jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast or thighs, thinly sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Garlic, minced
• Thai chilies, chopped
• Soy sauce
• Fish sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Sugar
• Vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and chopped Thai chilies, sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar.
5. Toss in the fresh basil leaves and cook until they are wilted.
6. Serve hot over jasmine rice.

For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice. A refreshing cucumber salad also pairs wonderfully with the spiciness of the dish.

7. Szechuan Beef

Szechuan Beef is a tantalizing dish that brings together the bold flavors of fiery chiles and numbing Szechuan peppercorns. This recipe is a fusion of the traditional spicy version from the Szechuan region in China and the saucy stir-fry commonly found in Chinese-American cuisine. The result is a perfect balance of intense heat and mildly sweet and salty sauciness.

Ingredients

• Beef (thinly sliced)
• Szechuan peppercorns
• Dried chiles
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Cornstarch
• Vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Marinate the beef: Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Add the beef and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the sauce: Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and a bit of water in a bowl. Set aside.
3. Cook the beef: Heat vegetable oil in a pan. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Stir-fry the aromatics: In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Stir-fry garlic, ginger, Szechuan peppercorns, and dried chiles until fragrant.
5. Combine and simmer: Return the beef to the pan, pour in the prepared sauce, and let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve: Garnish with green onions and serve hot with steamed rice.

For an authentic experience, use freshly ground Szechuan peppercorns to enhance the numbing sensation that characterizes this dish.

8. Harissa Roasted Vegetables

Harissa Roasted Vegetables are a vibrant and flavorful way to enjoy your favorite veggies. This dish combines a medley of vegetables with the bold, spicy notes of harissa paste, creating a side that’s both healthy and exciting.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of chopped carrots
• 1 cup of chopped bell peppers
• 1 cup of chopped zucchini
• 2 tablespoons of harissa paste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the harissa paste and olive oil.
3. Add the chopped vegetables to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Harissa Roasted Vegetables are perfect as a side dish or even as a main course when paired with a grain like quinoa or couscous. The spicy kick of harissa will make your dinner anything but boring.

9. Spicy Shrimp Tacos

Spice up your taco night with these delicious Spicy Shrimp Tacos. Perfectly seasoned shrimp are cooked to perfection and served on warm tortillas. The combination of flavors will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges

Instructions

1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque.
3. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing shrimp on each tortilla and topping with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos are a quick and easy way to bring some excitement to your dinner table. Serve with a side of guacamole or salsa for an extra kick.

10. Korean Spicy Pork

Korean Spicy Pork, also known as Dwaeji Bulgogi, is a flavorful dish that brings a delightful heat to your dinner table. The pork is marinated in a mixture of gochujang (Korean red chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sugar, creating a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and sweet flavors. This dish is a must-try for anyone looking to explore Korean cuisine.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pork shoulder, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp gochujang
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create the marinade.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork and cook until the meat is browned and cooked through.
4. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the pan, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Serve this spicy pork dish with steamed rice or lettuce wraps for a complete meal. The bold flavors will surely make it a favorite in your dinner rotation.

11. Peri-Peri Chicken

Peri-Peri Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that originates from Portugal and has become a favorite worldwide. The chicken is marinated in a blend of dried ancho chiles, smoked paprika, garlic, coriander, and sherry vinaigrette, giving it a smoky and tangy flavor that is simply irresistible.

Ingredients

• Chicken (whole or pieces)
• Dried ancho chiles
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic
• Coriander
• Sherry vinaigrette

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade by blending dried ancho chiles, smoked paprika, garlic, coriander, and sherry vinaigrette.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
3. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
4. Grill or roast the chicken until it is cooked through and has a nice char on the outside.
5. Serve hot with a side of crispy potatoes or a fresh salad.

This dish is perfect for those looking to add a bit of spice and excitement to their dinner routine. The combination of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors will leave your taste buds dancing.

12. Spicy Chickpea Curry

Spicy Chickpea Curry is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This curry is not only rich in taste but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome meal option. The combination of chickpeas, tomatoes, and a blend of spices creates a hearty and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of cooked chickpeas
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons of curry powder
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of coconut milk
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the onions in a large pot until they become translucent.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, paprika, and chili powder, allowing the spices to toast for about 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
5. Add the cooked chickpeas and coconut milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
6. Let the curry simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This Spicy Chickpea Curry is perfect for those looking to add a bit of heat to their meal while keeping it nutritious and satisfying. Serve it over rice or with warm naan bread for a complete dining experience.

Conclusion

Incorporating new and exciting recipes into your dinner routine doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these 12 recipes, you can easily add a burst of flavor and spice to your meals, making dinner time something to look forward to. Whether you’re a fan of bold Tex-Mex flavors, crave the warmth of Mediterranean dishes, or want to explore global cuisines, there’s something here for everyone. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to transform your dinner routine into a culinary adventure. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Moqueca Baiana?

Moqueca Baiana is a traditional Brazilian fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices. It’s typically served with rice.

How spicy is the Jalapeño Citrus Salmon?

The Jalapeño Citrus Salmon has a moderate level of spiciness. The jalapeños add a kick, but the citrus helps balance the heat.

What makes Jerk Chicken spicy?

Jerk Chicken is spicy due to the use of Scotch bonnet peppers and a blend of spices like allspice, thyme, and ginger in the marinade.

Can I make Nashville Hot Chicken less spicy?

Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness in Nashville Hot Chicken by using fewer cayenne peppers or opting for a milder hot sauce.

What ingredients are in Harissa Roasted Vegetables?

Harissa Roasted Vegetables typically include a mix of root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, seasoned with harissa paste, olive oil, and various spices.

Is Spicy Chickpea Curry vegan?

Yes, Spicy Chickpea Curry is usually vegan, made with chickpeas, tomatoes, coconut milk, and a blend of spices. Always check the recipe to ensure all ingredients are plant-based.