Merken Spice (pronounced “mer-KEN"), is an MSG-free, chile-centric seasoning blend. It is also referred to as merken, merken seasoning, Mapuche spice, merquen seasoning, merquen spice or merken Chilean spice.

Chilean food is generally not spicy, so Merken brings a spicy zest to many dishes, and is found in most Chilean kitchens. Over the last ten years, Merken has become more common in the U.S., but it still flies under the radar. With the current interest in more diverse spices and seasonings from elsewhere in the world, Merken is destined to emerge from the culinary shadows.

Businesses that frequently purchase Merken Spice are: 

• Latin American restaurants; 
• brewpubs; 
• B&Bs and hotels; 
• seasoning companies; 
• specialty shops; 
• independent spice shops; 
• gourmet markets; and 
• companies that manufacture meal kits and subscription foods

Flavor Profile

Merken Spice is smoky, citrusy, and earthy, with a bit of heat and some saltiness.

How To Use

This is a traditionally Chilean condiment, so it is used on traditional Chilean dishes like the lomito, a pork sandwich. It is a standard seasoning for Chilean Chacarero Steak Sandwiches. Or take it outside the box and use it when making a vegetarian African Vegetable Stew, toss over Sweet Apple Chicken and Roasted Vegetables, or a simple Roasted Carrots dish dressed with roasted garlic and lemons. 

Sprinkle it over a bowl of turkey chili. Rub over fresh tuna and grill to medium-rare. Add to the seasoning for a duck confit, then used the seasoned duck fat to make the richest fried potatoes ever. Put in the water for a crab boil, stir into fresh salsa, add to lentils or fresh succotash. Make a sandwich spread by stirring into mayonnaise.