Berbere seasoning is used in many Ethiopian dishes.
If you like a good Ethiopian curry or stew, you’ll need berbere seasoning to make them.
You can purchase berbere seasoning online and at specialty Ethiopian shops but it’s really easy to whip up yourself.
What is berbere seasoning?
This seasoning is used in so many Ethiopian recipes.
It’s really just a curry powder that has been developed over the years to local tastes. If you have ever prepared a homemade curry powder, this will be just as easy to make.
It keeps for at least three months in an air-tight container so I usually make quite a lot. Berbere seasoning is good to have on hand.
How much berbere seasoning should you add to your Ethiopian dishes?
This special blend is used in large amounts usually. We’re talking in excess of 8 tablespoons for a 4 -6 person recipe!
This may not be to your liking. I have given the amount I use in recipes such as doro wat (chicken stew) and other dishes but feel free to use less or more to taste.
At the end of the day, you’re the one eating it so be sure to let your tongue be the guide and don’t feel like you have to stick to the recipe.
Step by step…
Berbere Seasoning
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- Seeds from 5 green cardamom pods
- 1 tsp fenugreek seeds
- ¼ nutmeg, smashed
- 1 x 2.5cm (1 inch) cinnamon stick
- 2 tsp black peppercorns
- 2 whole allspice berries
- 5 cloves
- 10 dried red chillies , cut into small pieces
- 5 generous tbsp paprika
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
Instructions
- Heat a frying pan over medium high heat and add the whole spice. Roast in the pan until fragrant and warm to the touch but not yet smoking. This should only take 30 – 60 seconds. Transfer the spices to a plate to cool slightly and the grind to a fine powder using a pestle and mortar or spice grinder.
- Now roast the chillies until warm and fragrant but not yet smoking. This will take about 30 seconds. Transfer to a plate to cool.
- Mix in the remaining ingredients and store in a cool, dry location in an air tight container. Berbera should keep for at least three months.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 77Total Fat: 2gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 599mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 6gSugar: 6gProtein: 3g
If you do try it, please leave a comment. I’d love to hear from you.