Berbere spice blend –Cooking is a cultural journey that brings various flavors from around the world into our kitchens. One such flavor that is both delightful and aromatic is the Berbere spice blend from Ethiopia. This recipe brings a taste of Ethiopian cuisine right into your home, and best of all, it’s easy to prepare!
Berbere Spice Blend
This authentic recipe for Berbere is perfect for those who want to add a bit of zest to their dishes. The recipe is not only simple, but it also requires ingredients that are often found in your pantry.

Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine all the spices: paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground turmeric, ground cardamom, ground black pepper, ground cloves, salt, and nutmeg.
- Use a whisk to blend the ingredients thoroughly. Make sure there are no clumps, and all the spices are evenly distributed.
- Once mixed, taste the blend and adjust the spices according to your preference. You can add more cayenne if you like it spicier or more paprika for a milder flavor.
- Store your Berbere spice blend in an airtight container, preferably in a cool, dark place. This will help preserve its aromatic qualities.
- Use the Berbere spice blend in various dishes such as stews, meats, or even vegetables, to impart that unique, warm Ethiopian flavor. You can also mix it into yogurt or sour cream to create a delightful dip.
Berbere spice is a wonderful way to experiment with flavors and enliven your meals. It’s very versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of cuisines, making it a delightful addition to your spice rack. Enjoy cooking and savor the unique flavor of Ethiopia in every dish!