Today's foodie question is from Marlene who writes: "I purchased a spice called Merquen when in Chile. We had it in a dip served with sopappilas. I was wondering if you have a dip recipe using this spice." Merquen is a chili spice blend. It is made from smoked chilies called Cacho de Cabra or "horn of the goat." Depending on the preparation and producer, the dried chilies are ground and blended with various spices; usually coriander seeds, cumin and sometimes salt. Use it as you would use chili powder. If the one you have has salt in it, decrease the salt you are using in your recipe. It is also great as a spice rub for steak or pork, sprinkled over grilled corn on the cob or anywhere you would like a smokey hit of flavour. I would try substituting the spice in any of these recipes with the Merquen, I think the Red Pepper dip would be especially good!: Curry Dip Bean Dip with Zahtar Red Pepper Dip Sun Dried Tomato Dip