1-First Steps: Toasting and Preparing Toast coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and black peppercorns in a skillet over medium-low heat for 4 to 5 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally. Skip this if you’re using ground spices to save time. After toasting, let them cool and lightly crush them using a mortar and pestle or a similar tool for that authentic texture.

2-Blending the Paste Combine the crushed spices with the red bell pepper, red chilies, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, turmeric, sea salt, lemon juice, lime zest and juice, green onions or shallots, oil or water, and maple syrup in a food processor or blender. Blend until a smooth paste forms, scraping the sides as needed to ensure everything mixes evenly. Adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more lime zest or juice, salt, chilies, sweetener, oil, garlic, ginger, or turmeric. This step lets you customize the heat and flavor perfectly for your taste buds.