Homemade Berbere (Ethiopian Hot Pepper Seasoning)
Introduction
Elevate your culinary creations with this vibrant and aromatic Berbere spice blend, a staple in Ethiopian cuisine known for its complex flavor profile and versatility. This homemade version not only delivers an authentic taste but also offers the convenience of keeping well on your pantry shelf for several months, enhancing dishes with its robust heat and fragrant spices. Perfect for those who appreciate the intricacies of African cooking, this recipe yields a generous amount, ensuring you have plenty on hand for all your cooking adventures.
Recipe Details
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Ethiopian |
| Yield | 1 ½ cups |
| Servings | Approximately 10-12 servings |
| Aggregated Rating | 5/5 |
| Review Count | 4 |
| Description | This keeps longer on the shelf than most seasonings, maintaining freshness for 5 to 6 months when stored properly. |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 353.8 |
| Total Fat | 17.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 9339.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 65 g |
| Fiber | 34.8 g |
| Sugar | 11.4 g |
| Protein | 14.7 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | ground ginger |
| ¼ | ground cinnamon |
| ½ | ground cardamom |
| ¼ | ground allspice |
| ½ | ground coriander |
| 2 | teaspoons salt |
| 1/2 | ground fenugreek |
| 1 ¼ | teaspoons cayenne pepper |
| ½ | ground nutmeg |
| 1/2 | paprika |
| ¼ | ground cloves |
| 1 | teaspoon fresh ground black pepper |
Instructions
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Toast the Spices: In a heavy saucepan, begin by toasting the following ground spices over low heat: ground ginger, ground cardamom, ground coriander, ground fenugreek, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and ground allspice. Allow the spices to toast for approximately 4 to 5 minutes, which will enhance their flavors and aromas.
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Prevent Burning: During the toasting process, be vigilant by shaking or stirring the mixture frequently to prevent any spices from burning, which can lead to a bitter taste in your final product.
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Add Additional Ingredients: Once the initial spices are toasted to perfection, add the salt, cayenne pepper, paprika, and freshly ground black pepper to the saucepan. Continue to toast this mixture, stirring constantly, for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and deepen.
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Cool and Store: Once the spices have reached a rich, fragrant aroma, remove the saucepan from heat. Allow the mixture to cool completely before transferring it into a tightly covered glass jar. Proper storage will help maintain the potency of the spices, allowing you to enjoy this delightful Berbere seasoning for months to come.
Final Thoughts
This homemade Berbere seasoning is not just a blend; it’s a passport to exploring the rich and diverse flavors of Ethiopian cuisine. Use it to season meats, vegetables, or even in stews to bring a delightful heat and depth to your dishes. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice looking to spice up your meals, this easy-to-make seasoning will surely become a cherished addition to your spice collection. Enjoy experimenting with its flavors, and let your culinary creativity shine!
