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…

Roast the chillies over medium high heat until softened and fragrant but not yet smoking. Be sure to stir regularly so that they roast evenly. Transfer to a plate to cool.

Now roast the whole spices until fragrant and warm to the touch but not yet smoking. Transfer to a plate to cool.

Place the cooled chillies and spices in a spice grinder and grind to a fine powder. A pestle and mortar will also work for this.

This berbere spice blend should last for up to three months in a cool environment in an air-tight container
Berbere Seasoning
Ingredients
Instructions
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6
Serving Size:
1
Amount 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.