Introducing Berbere Spice into Your Cooking: Tips and Ideas

Ethiopian Berbere spice is a rich and aromatic spice blend that is used in many Ethiopian cuisines. It is also commonly utilized in other East African and international cuisines. Berbere spice can give depth, heat, and flavor to a variety of dishes, including stews, soups, meats, and vegetables.

Berbere means “hot” or “pepper” in Amharic, Ethiopia’s national language. Dried red chilies, garlic, ginger, fenugreek, cardamom, coriander, cumin, black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt are common ingredients in Berbere spice. There is, however, no universal recipe for berbere spice, and different locations and households may have their own variants and preferences.

Berbere spice is typically produced by sun-drying chilies and other ingredients before crushing them into a fine powder. For several months, store the spice blend in an airtight jar. Some people like to make a paste out of the powder by combining it with oil or water. The paste can be used in a variety of foods as a marinade or sauce.

Berbere spice is flexible and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some ways to include berbere spice into your cooking:

– For a hearty and spicy stew, combine berbere spice with lentils, beans, or chickpeas. For added nutrition and flavor, add some vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or spinach.

– Before roasting or grilling, sprinkle berbere spice over chicken, beef, or lamb. For a more powerful taste, rub the spice mixture into the meat and let it marinate for a few hours or overnight.

– Berbere spice can be combined with yogurt or sour cream to make a dip for breads, crackers, or chips. For a sweet and tart contrast, pour some honey or lemon juice over the dip.

– To make a simple and tasty side dish, mix berbere spice into rice, couscous, or quinoa. You can also add raisins, nuts, or herbs for texture and flavor.

– Combine berbere spice and tomato sauce or paste to make a base for pizza, spaghetti, or shakshuka. You can also add cheese, eggs, or meat to increase the protein and richness.