## Discover the Vibrant Flavors of Berbere Spice Paste: A Culinary Journey Through Ethiopia ##
Embark on a tantalizing culinary adventure with berbere spice paste, a vibrant blend of flavors that has captivated the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. Originating from the diverse culinary traditions of Ethiopia, this aromatic paste is a cornerstone of many beloved dishes, adding a distinctive depth and complexity to stews, soups, and meat preparations. With its fiery heat, earthy undertones, and a captivating array of spices, berbere is a true symphony of flavors that will transport you to the bustling streets of Addis Ababa.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of berbere spice paste, providing you with three delectable recipes that showcase its versatility and culinary magic. From the classic Beef Tibs, where tender beef cubes are enveloped in a rich and spicy sauce, to the aromatic Misir Wot, a hearty lentil stew brimming with flavor, and the irresistible Gomen, a vibrant collard greens dish infused with berbere's distinctive warmth, each recipe captures the essence of Ethiopian cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating authentic Ethiopian meals that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your palate, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other!
BERBERE (ETHIOPIAN SPICE BLEND)
Steps:
- 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 place.
Nutrition Facts : ServingSize 1 teaspoon, Calories 11 kcal, Carbohydrate 2 g, Protein 1 g, Fat 1 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 127 mg, Fiber 1 g, Sugar 1 g
BERBERE - ETHIOPIAN SPICE PASTE
Having served as a foster parent for a number of Ethiopian young people during the 90's, I was lucky enough to get this Ethiopian berbere paste recipe. I'll warn you...it's HOT!
Provided by Stephen from Des Moines,Iowa
Number Of Ingredients 17
Steps:
- In a heavy 2 to 3 quart. saucepan, preferably enameled or non-stick, toast the ginger, cardamom, coriander, fenugreek, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon and allspice over low heat, stirring constantly, just until heated through. Let cool 5 to 10 minutes.Combine the toasted spices, onions, garlic, 1 T of the salt and the wine in the jar of an electric blender and blend at high speed until the mixture is a smooth paste. A food processor will not suffice for this.Combine the paprika, red pepper, black pepper, and remaining salt in the saucepan and toast over low heat, stirring constantly, for a minute or so, until they are heated through.Stir in the water, ¼ c at a time, then add the spice and wine mixture. Stirring constantly, cook over the lowest possible heat for 10 to 15 minutes.
ETHIOPIAN SPICE MIX (BERBERE)
Berbere is a chile and spice blend used to season many Ethiopian dishes. Because authentic berbere can be hard to find, we developed our own recipe. Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 15 min
Categories Quick & Easy Spice Gourmet
Yield Makes about 1 cup
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Finely grind fenugreek seeds in an electric coffee/spice grinder. Stir together with remaining ingredients until combined well.
BERBERE -- ETHIOPIAN RED PEPPER AND SPICE PASTE
This is a new discovery for me but I was quickly converted when this paste helped me make a wonderfully rich tomato sauce, full of deep flavours. Berbere spice paste has many variations. This is a mild form but you can certainly exchange some of the paprika for more cayenne pepper to make it hot and spicy. When you come to use it, in a tomato sauce for example, roast it for at least 5 minutes in your frying pan or sauce pot, adding water a few drops at a time to keep it from burning. The roasting helps the flavours develop.
Provided by Sackville
Categories Ethiopian
Time 30m
Yield 2 cups
Number Of Ingredients 17
Steps:
- In a heavy frying pan, toast the ginger, cardamom, coriander, fenugreek, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon and allspice over a low heat for a minute or so.
- Stir constantly until they are heated through and then remove from the pan.
- Next you need to combine the toasted spices, onions, garlic, 1 tbsp of the salt and all of the wine together into a smooth paste.
- I prefer to do this in a mortar and pestle but if you have a blender that is good with small quantities that may work too.
- Next mix the paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper and the rest of the salt in the frying pan and toast them over a low heat.
- Stir in the water 1/4 cup at a time and then add the spice and wine mixture.
- Stir vigorously and cook over the lowest possibly heat, stirring all the time, for an absolute minimum of 5 minutes and up to 10 or even 15 minutes if you can.
- Transfer the spice paste to a jar and pack it in tightly.
- Let the paste cool to room temperature and then cover with enough oil so it makes a film about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.
- If you keep it covered with oil, the paste will last in the fridge for 5-6 months.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 425.7, Fat 22.1, SaturatedFat 3.5, Sodium 7061.1, Carbohydrate 67.2, Fiber 40.7, Sugar 12.5, Protein 16.9
SPICE PASTE (BERBERE)
Make and share this Spice Paste (Berbere) recipe from Food.com.
Provided by Charlotte J
Categories Ethiopian
Time 40m
Yield 1 batch
Number Of Ingredients 15
Steps:
- In a cast-iron skillet, toast the ginger, cardamom, coriander, fenugreek, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice over low heat.
- Do not burn, this should only take a minute or so.
- Set aside to cool.
- Combine the spices, onions, garlic, 1 tablespoon of the salt, and 3 tablespoons water in a small jar of a blender and blend until smooth.
- Combine the paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and the remaining tablespoon of salt in the skillet and toast over low heat for a minute or so.
- Stir in the water, 1/4 cup at a time.
- Then stir in the blended mixture.
- Stirring vigorously, cook over the lowest possible heat for 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer the berbere to a jar, packing it in tightly.
- Let the paste cook to room temperature, then cover with a film of oil.
- Store in the refrigerator between use.
BERBERE SPICED CHICKEN BREASTS
One of my favorite uses for berbere spice is this chicken breast recipe. But you can use a pork chop or a piece of lamb, it's so versatile.
Provided by Chef John
Categories Meat and Poultry Recipes Chicken Chicken Breast Recipes Skillet
Time 20m
Yield 1
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Season both sides of chicken breast with salt. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon berbere spice mix to coat both sides of chicken breast (see Cook's Note for recipe link).
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until it just starts to turn brown. Immediately transfer chicken breast to skillet; cook 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a warm dish.
- Stir in lime juice, tomato paste, chicken broth, and coconut milk; stir to deglaze pan. Bring to a simmer while stirring. Add 1/2 teaspoon berbere spice and a pinch of salt. Transfer chicken breast back to skillet; reduce heat to medium-low. Cook until chicken is cooked through and sauce starts to reduce, basting chicken with pan juices as it cooks, 4 or 5 more minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
- Sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve with a drizzle of the pan sauce.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 432 calories, Carbohydrate 15.7 g, Cholesterol 92.2 mg, Fat 28.1 g, Fiber 6.8 g, Protein 28.4 g, SaturatedFat 20.4 g, Sodium 3392.6 mg, Sugar 2.9 g
Tips:
- Fresh is best: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible, as they will provide the most flavor. If you can't find fresh ingredients, use frozen or dried ingredients as a substitute.
- Toast your spices: Toasting your spices before using them will help to release their flavor and aroma. This can be done in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or in a toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-10 minutes.
- Grind your own spices: If you have a spice grinder, grind your own spices just before using them. This will give you the freshest, most flavorful spices.
- Use a variety of spices: Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices. The more spices you use, the more complex and flavorful your dish will be.
- Taste as you go: Always taste your dish as you are cooking it and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Conclusion:
Berbere spice paste is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be used to add depth and complexity to a variety of dishes. Whether you are using it to make a traditional Ethiopian stew or simply adding it to your favorite soup or curry, berbere is sure to please. With its bold and spicy flavor, berbere is a great way to add some excitement to your next meal.
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