Berbere is one of the most commonly used spice blends in Ethiopian cuisine. I am often asked: where to buy Berbere? What ingredients should the mixture use? How much should I buy? How do I know that the Berber I’m buying is authentic and of good quality? Here are some of my tips on how to choose which berbere blend is best to buy!
Tip no. 1: Buy from your local Ethiopian store if possible: Most Ethiopian shops have their berbere imported directly from Ethiopia, which used fresh, authentic herbs and spices needed to make berbere. Authentic herbs and spices are not always easily available here locally, and if they are, they may be in dried form, not in the fresh herbs used in traditional Ethiopian berbere!
Tip no. 2: Check the ingredients: The traditional Berber blend contains a variety of spices and herbs, depending on the family recipe. Here are some of the main spices to look for in the ingredient list: chili peppers, Besobela (Ethiopian basil), Korerima (black cardamom), Nech Azmud (ajwain seed), and Tikur Azmud. Other ingredients include onions, garlic and ginger.
Tip #3: Check the quality: To make sure you take a “batch” look at these qualities while purchasing Berbere. The color of the Berbere should be a bright orange-red. It has a fine, ground texture and a medium spicy flavor due to the chilies used to prepare it. Berbere should also be stored in a cool, dry place to preserve its quality.
Tip #4: Quantity to purchase: Most berbere is sold in 1 pound bags, which may seem like a lot, however, at least 3 tablespoons or more of berbere are usually used in most Ethiopian dishes. If you cook Ethiopian dishes often or plan to, purchasing 1 pound of Berbere is convenient. If you plan to use Berbere only in your dishes, an 8 oz or 2 oz would be best from time to time if you are just trying it!
If Berbere is not available in your city, you can check out my Berbere here. All my spice blends are imported from Ethiopia to give you authentic flavor!
