Soak the chillies in hot water until softened. Drain. Remove the stems and seeds. Put chillies, water, salt and garlic in a food processor and puree until well chopped. Add the remaining spices and puree until smooth.

Helpful hints:

Try different chillies for different heat levels. You may use a mortar and pestle if you don’t have a good processor. Store in a glass jar with a layer of olive oil on top. It will keep, covered, for up to a month. If olive oil gets too thin on top, add more.