15 Eritrean Berbere Holiday Recipes Perfect for Horn of Africa Thanksgiving Spice

15 Eritrean Berbere Holiday Recipes Perfect for Horn of Africa Thanksgiving Spice

Spicy Berbere Lentil Stew

hearty spicy lentil stew

Spicy Berbere Lentil Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Eritrean cuisine. This vegan stew is infused with the warming spice blend known as berbere, which typically includes chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices. It is perfect for holiday gatherings, providing both comfort and nourishment to warm hearts and homes.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Ginger 1 tablespoon, grated
Carrots 2, diced
Celery 2 stalks, diced
Bell pepper 1, diced
Berbere spice blend 2 tablespoons
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Red lentils 1 cup
Canned tomatoes 1 can (14 oz)
Spinach or kale 2 cups, chopped
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant.
  3. Add diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper, then cook for about 5 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle in the berbere spice blend and stir well to coat the vegetables.
  5. Pour in vegetable broth and add red lentils and canned tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
  7. Stir in chopped spinach or kale and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and serve garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
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Berbere Roasted Vegetables

spiced roasted seasonal vegetables

Berbere Roasted Vegetables are a vibrant and delicious dish that showcases the versatility of the berbere spice blend while highlighting seasonal vegetables. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, as it adds a colorful and healthy option to your table. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while the berbere seasoning adds a delightful warmth and complexity.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Carrots 2, sliced
Bell peppers 2, chopped
Zucchini 1, sliced
Cauliflower or broccoli 2 cups, florets
Berbere spice blend 2 tablespoons
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, berbere spice blend, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
  3. Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
  5. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
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Eritrean Injera With Berbere Dipping Sauce

eritrean injera with dipping sauce

Eritrean Injera with Berbere Dipping Sauce is a fantastic dish that combines the traditional Ethiopian flatbread, injera, with a flavorful berbere dipping sauce. This dish not only serves as a staple in Eritrean cuisine but also allows for a delightful experience as the tangy and spongy injera is perfect for scooping up the rich and spicy sauce. It’s a wonderful option for holiday celebrations, sharing, and enjoying with family and friends.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole wheat flour 2 cups
Water 2 ½ cups
Salt ½ teaspoon
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Berbere spice blend 2 tablespoons
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Additional water for sauce ¼ cup (if needed)

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, water, and salt to form a batter. Allow it to rest for about 2-3 hours at room temperature to ferment slightly.
  2. After resting, stir in the baking soda.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in a ladleful of the batter and quickly swirl to coat the pan evenly. Cook until bubbles form on the surface (about 2-3 minutes), then cover and let steam for another 1-2 minutes.
  4. Carefully remove the injera and allow it to cool on a plate. Repeat until all batter is cooked.
  5. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and berbere spice blend. Add water gradually to reach your desired dipping sauce consistency.
  6. Serve the injera warm with the berbere dipping sauce on the side, allowing everyone to enjoy this traditional dish together.
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Berbere Chicken Skewers

grilled berbere chicken skewers
Ingredients Quantity
Chicken breast (cut into cubes) 1 ½ pounds
Olive oil ¼ cup
Berbere spice blend 3 tablespoons
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Black pepper ¼ teaspoon
Wooden skewers (soaked in water) 10-12

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, berbere spice blend, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
  2. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and coat well. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for better flavor.
  3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers.
  5. Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are fully cooked and have nice grill marks.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for an added touch. Enjoy!
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Spicy Berbere Beef Tibs

spicy berbere beef tibs

Spicy Berbere Beef Tibs are a traditional Eritrean dish made with tender chunks of beef marinated in a flavorful berbere spice mix, sautéed with onions and peppers. This dish is often served with injera (a traditional flatbread) or rice and is perfect for a festive gathering or family meal, bringing warmth and zest to your holiday celebrations.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef (sirloin or ribeye, cut into bite-sized pieces) 1 ½ pounds
Olive oil ¼ cup
Berbere spice blend 3 tablespoons
Onion (sliced) 1 medium
Bell peppers (sliced) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Fresh ginger (minced) 1 tablespoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper ½ teaspoon
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) ¼ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the beef pieces, berbere spice, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and cooked through.
  5. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with injera or rice. Enjoy!
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Vegetable Berbere Samosas

crispy spiced vegetable samosas

Vegetable Berbere Samosas are a popular Eritrean snack that combines crispy pastry with a savory filling spiced with the rich and complex flavors of berbere. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday celebrations or as appetizers for any gathering, offering a delightful crunch and a burst of spicy goodness.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Water ½ cup
Salt ½ teaspoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Potatoes (boiled and mashed) 2 medium
Onions (finely chopped) 1 medium
Carrots (grated) 1 medium
Berbere spice blend 2 tablespoons
Fresh cilantro (chopped) ¼ cup
Oil (for frying) As needed

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and water to make a soft dough; cover and let it rest for 20 minutes.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan, add chopped onions, and sauté until translucent. Add grated carrots, mashed potatoes, and berbere spice, mixing well; cook for a few minutes and stir in cilantro. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Divide dough into small balls, roll each into thin circles, and cut in half. Take one half and form a cone, sealing the edges with a little water.
  4. Fill the cone with the vegetable filling and seal the top edges securely, forming a samosa.
  5. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the samosas until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels and serve hot. Enjoy!
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Berbere Shrimp Stir-Fry

berbere shrimp vegetable stir fry
Ingredients Quantity
Shrimp (peeled and deveined) 1 pound
Bell peppers (sliced) 1 medium
Broccoli florets 1 cup
Carrots (sliced) 1 medium
Onions (sliced) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Berbere spice blend 1 tablespoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Soy sauce 2 tablespoons
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) ¼ cup
Salt and pepper To taste

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add sliced onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant and onions are soft.
  3. Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots; cook for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
  5. Sprinkle the berbere spice and soy sauce over the mixture, tossing to coat everything evenly; season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot over rice or with flatbread. Enjoy!
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Holiday Berbere Beef Stew

festive berbere beef stew

Holiday Berbere Beef Stew is a rich and flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of festive gatherings. This hearty stew combines tender beef with warm spices, vegetables, and the iconic berbere blend, making it a comforting meal for holiday celebrations or cozy dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef (cut into chunks) 2 pounds
Onions (chopped) 2 medium
Garlic (minced) 4 cloves
Carrots (sliced) 2 medium
Potatoes (cubed) 2 medium
Berbere spice blend 2 tablespoons
Beef broth 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper To taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish) ¼ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions and garlic until soft.
  2. Add the beef chunks and cook until browned on all sides.
  3. Stir in the berbere spice blend, carrots, and potatoes, mixing well to coat.
  4. Pour in the beef broth, bringing the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy!
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Berbere-Infused Pumpkin Soup

creamy spiced pumpkin soup

Berbere-Infused Pumpkin Soup is a warm and creamy dish that brings a wonderful blend of flavors and spices to your holiday table. This velvety soup combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the warmth of berbere spice, creating a delightful appetizer or light meal that showcases the essence of Eritrean cuisine.

Ingredients Quantity
Pumpkin (peeled and cubed) 4 cups
Onions (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Berbere spice blend 1 tablespoon
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Coconut milk 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper To taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) ¼ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
  2. Add the pumpkin cubes and berbere spice; cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the pumpkin is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  4. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a stand blender.
  5. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
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Sweet and Spicy Berbere Carrots

sweet and spicy carrots

Sweet and Spicy Berbere Carrots are a vibrant and flavorful side dish that beautifully showcases the versatility of berbere spice. This dish features roasted carrots that are caramelized to perfection and tossed with a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors. It adds a colorful and nutritious element to any holiday meal, complementing various main courses with its aromatic taste.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots (peeled and sliced) 4 cups
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Berbere spice blend 1 tablespoon
Honey or maple syrup 2 tablespoons
Salt ½ teaspoon
Fresh parsley (for garnish) ¼ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced carrots with olive oil, berbere spice, honey (or maple syrup), and salt until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
  4. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy!

Berbere Cauliflower Tacos

spiced cauliflower stuffed tacos

Berbere Cauliflower Tacos are a delicious and inventive way to enjoy the hearty flavors of Ethiopian cuisine. The cauliflower is roasted to perfection with a savory berbere spice blend, then stuffed into warm tortillas for a delightful combination of textures and tastes. These tacos are perfect for a festive gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, bringing bold flavors to the table.

Ingredients Quantity
Cauliflower (cut into florets) 1 medium head
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Berbere spice blend 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Corn tortillas 8
Avocado (sliced) 1
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) ¼ cup
Lime wedges 2

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, berbere spice, and salt until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the cauliflower on the baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, until golden and tender.
  4. Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
  5. Fill each tortilla with the roasted cauliflower, top with sliced avocado and cilantro, and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy!

Eritrean Berbere Eggplant Curry

eritrean spicy eggplant curry

Eritrean Berbere Eggplant Curry is a rich and flavorful vegetarian dish that highlights the robust spices commonly found in Eritrean cuisine. This curry combines tender chunks of eggplant with a fragrant berbere spice blend, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with rice or flatbreads. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the earthy flavors of eggplant while savoring the heat and complexity of the berbere.

Ingredients Quantity
Eggplant (cut into cubes) 1 large
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Onion (chopped) 1 medium
Garlic (minced) 3 cloves
Ginger (grated) 1 tablespoon
Berbere spice blend 2 tablespoons
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14 oz)
Coconut milk 1 can (13.5 oz)
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) ¼ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
  2. Stir in the berbere spice blend and cook for another minute to release the spices’ aroma.
  3. Add the cubed eggplant, canned tomatoes (with juice), coconut milk, vegetable broth, and salt. Mix well.
  4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let cook for about 20-25 minutes, until the eggplant is tender and the sauce thickens.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside rice or flatbreads. Enjoy!

Berbere and Coconut Rice

berbere coconut rice recipe

Berbere and Coconut Rice is a delightful side dish that showcases the fusion of Eritrean spices with the creamy richness of coconut. This fragrant rice dish is infused with the warmth of berbere and the subtle sweetness of coconut milk, making it a perfect accompaniment to various dishes, including curries and stews.

Ingredients Quantity
Basmati rice 1 cup
Coconut milk 1 can (13.5 oz)
Water 1 cup
Berbere spice blend 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish) ¼ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, berbere spice blend, and salt.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork.
  5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!

Sweet Potato and Berbere Mash

sweet potato berbere mash recipe

Sweet Potato and Berbere Mash is a comforting and flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes enhanced by the warmth of berbere spice. This dish is not only satisfying and nutritious but also brings a touch of Eritrean culture to your holiday table, making it a perfect side for both festive gatherings and family dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 2 large
Butter 2 tablespoons
Berbere spice blend 1 teaspoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Fresh parsley (for garnish) ¼ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes, then place them in a pot of salted water.
  2. Bring the water to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Drain well.
  3. In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes with butter, berbere spice blend, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
  4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, then transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Berbere Spiced Pomegranate Salad

vibrant pomegranate spice salad

Berbere Spiced Pomegranate Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the sweet-tart flavors of pomegranate with the warmth of berbere spice. This salad is perfect for adding a burst of color and flavor to your holiday table, making it a delightful accompaniment to any meal or a light starter that guests will enjoy.

Ingredients Quantity
Pomegranate seeds 1 cup
Arugula or spinach 3 cups
Red onion ½ medium, thinly sliced
Cucumber 1 medium, diced
Cherry tomatoes 1 cup, halved
Berbere spice blend 1 teaspoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Feta cheese (optional) ½ cup, crumbled

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine arugula or spinach, pomegranate seeds, cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, berbere spice blend, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
  4. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.