Berbere (Ethiopian Spice Blend)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Total Time
10 mins
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Servings
18 servings
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Calories
11 kcal
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Course
Condiments
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Cuisine
Ethiopian
Berbere (Ethiopian Spice Blend)
Description
The recipe calls for toasting coriander, cumin, fenugreek, black peppercorns, allspice, cardamom seeds, cloves, and dried red chili pieces in a skillet until fragrant to release their essential oils, then cooling before grinding. The toasted ground spices are combined with paprika, salt, nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric to complete the mixture.
The resulting deep red powder balances heat from the chilies with warm and sweet elements from the spices, lending an intense aroma and flavor to stews, meats, and vegetable dishes. Berbere is a key ingredient in many Ethiopian recipes.
For cooks preferring less heat, removing seeds from the dried chilies reduces spiciness while preserving flavor. The blend should be stored airtight in a dark, cool place and is best used within three months for optimal freshness.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 allspice berries whole
- green cardamom seeds seeds of 4 pods
- 4 cloves
- 5 dried red chili , seeds and membranes removed and broken into small pieces (see Note)
- 3 tablespoons paprika sweet
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric
Instructions
- In a heavy skillet over high heat, toast the whole spices (seeds) and chilies, shaking the pan regularly to prevent scorching, until very fragrant, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and let cool completely.
- Grind the cooled spices in a spice or coffee grinder. Add all remaining ground spices and salt and grind everything together.Store in an airtight container in a dark, cool place. Will keep for up to 3 months.
Notes
- For less heat, remove the seeds from the dried chilies before toasting to control spiciness.
- Store the spice blend in an airtight container away from light and heat to preserve flavor up to three months.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 18servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 11 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1teaspoon | |
| Calories | 11kcal | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 127mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 78mg | 2% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 694IU | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 18mg | 20% |
| Calcium | 8mg | 1% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.