Berbere (Ethiopian Spice Blend)

berbere recipe best authentic ethiopian spice blend seasoning traditional spicy

By Kimberly Killebrew

Central to Ethiopian cuisine, berbere is a spice blend that is fiery hot and bursting with flavor!

4.94 from 32 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course condiment, Seasoning

Cuisine ethiopian

Servings servings

Calories 11 kcal

Equipment

Coffee/spice grinder

Ingredients

2 teaspoons coriander seeds
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
2 whole allspice berries
Seeds of 4 green cardamom pods
4 cloves
5 dried red chilies , seeds and membranes removed and broken into small pieces (see Note)
3 tablespoons sweet paprika
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

If you like extreme heat, leave a few of the seeds in. It will still be very spicy even without the seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1teaspoonCalories: 11kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 127mgPotassium: 78mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 694IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 1mg

Keyword Berbere

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!