Berbere is a mix of dried spices traditionally used in Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine. It’s used to flavor stews or as a rub for grilled meat. (It would be delicious rubbed on grilled tofu or tempeh!) Creating your own spice blend helps to minimize unwanted additives and preservatives found in some store-bought spice blends. These spices are packed with anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, not to mention plenty of flavors. Use them often to create delicious and nutritious plant-based recipes!
Eco-Friendly Print
Print with all Pictures
Yields4 ServingsPrep Time5 minsCook Time3 minsTotal Time8 mins
Ingredients
½tspcoriander seed
½tspcumin seed
2green cardamom pods
¼tspfenugreek seed
⅛tsppeppercorns
1tbspchili powder
1tbspsweet paprika
¼tspground cayenne pepper (optional) +1/4 tsp as desired
¼tspgarlic powder
¼tspground ginger
⅛tspground nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)
⅛tspallspice
¼tspsalt (optional)
Directions
1
Heat the coriander seed, cumin seed, cardamom pods, fenugreek seed, and peppercorns on medium heat in a medium stovetop pan until fragrant (about 2–3 minutes), tossing often to prevent burning.
2
Once finished toasting, grind the spices in a spice grinder or with a mortar and pestle.
3
Add the toasted ground spices and remaining berbere spices to a small bowl and mix well.
4
Transfer to an airtight container and store in a dry, dark place for up to six months.
Chef's Notes
Substitutions
Use fennel seed in place of fenugreek seed.
Use smoked paprika in place of sweet paprika for a smoky flavor.
Use a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove in place of allspice.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in a dry, dark place for up to six months.
Ingredients
½tspcoriander seed
½tspcumin seed
2green cardamom pods
¼tspfenugreek seed
⅛tsppeppercorns
1tbspchili powder
1tbspsweet paprika
¼tspground cayenne pepper (optional) +1/4 tsp as desired
¼tspgarlic powder
¼tspground ginger
⅛tspground nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)
⅛tspallspice
¼tspsalt (optional)
Directions
1
Heat the coriander seed, cumin seed, cardamom pods, fenugreek seed, and peppercorns on medium heat in a medium stovetop pan until fragrant (about 2–3 minutes), tossing often to prevent burning.
2
Once finished toasting, grind the spices in a spice grinder or with a mortar and pestle.
3
Add the toasted ground spices and remaining berbere spices to a small bowl and mix well.
4
Transfer to an airtight container and store in a dry, dark place for up to six months.
Stay up to date on the latest breakthroughs in nutrition, health, and lifestyle medicine.
"*" indicates required fields
By entering your information here, you are agreeing to receive messages from Food Revolution Network. Your email address will NEVER be shared or sold. You are always free to easily unsubscribe at any time. See our Privacy Policy for more info.