Berebere (Ethiopian Spice Blend)

Berbere Ethiopian Spice Blend.jpg
  • Prep time:5 minutes
  • Cooking time:None
  • Recipe serves:Makes about 6 Tablespoons

Berbere is a hot (or not) spice blend that is an integral ingredient in Ethiopian cuisine.  Every Ethiopian cook has their own version of this blend.  Here is our version which is wonderful staple to have in the pantry for rubbing on meat, poultry and fish, the base of wonderful heart-warming curry's, soups and stews . Berbere is a wonderful all-purpose blend with delicious warming fragrant spices.

Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons coriander seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • ½ teaspoon fenugreek seeds
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 2 whole allspice berries
  • Seeds of 4 green cardamom pods, smashed
  • 3 Black cardamom pods, smashed
  • 4 cloves
  • 5 dried red chilies, seeded, broken into small pieces (you choose the heat)
  • 3 tablespoons sweet smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric

Method

  1. 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.
  2. Grind the cooled spices in a spice or coffee grinder. Add all remaining ground spices and salt and grind everything together.
  3. Store in an airtight container in a dark place.