Berbere is one of the most commonly used spice blends in Ethiopian Cuisine. I frequently get asked, where to buy Berbere? What ingredients should the blend use? How much should I buy? How do I know the Berbere I’m buying is authentic and of good quality? Here are some of my tips on choosing what Berbere blend is best to buy!
Tip #1: Buy From Your Local Ethiopian Store, if possible: Most Ethiopian Stores have their Berbere directly imported from Ethiopia, which used fresh authentic herbs and spices needed to make Berbere. The authentic herbs and spices are not always readily available here locally, and if they are, they may be in a dried form, not the fresh herbs used in the traditional Ethiopian berbere!
Tip # 2: Check the Ingredients: The traditional Berbere Blend contains a variety of spices and herbs, depending on the family recipe. Here are some of the main spices to look for on the ingredients list - Chilies, Besobela (Ethiopian basil), Korerima (Black Cardamom), Nech Azmud (ajwain seed), and Tikur Azmud. Additional ingredients include onions, garlic, and ginger.
Tip #3: Check for Quality: To make sure you’re getting a good “batch” look for these qualities while shopping for Berbere. The color of the Berbere should be a bright red-orange. It has a fine ground-like texture and a medium spice taste due to the chilis used to make it. The Berbere should also be stored in a cool and dry place to preserve its quality.
Tip #4: Quantity to buy: Most Berbere is sold in 1 lb bags which may seem like a lot, however, a minimum of 3 tablespoons or more of Berbere is usually used in most Ethiopian dishes. If you cook Ethiopian dishes frequently or plan to, buying the 1 pound of Berbere is cost-effective. If you only plan to use Berbere in your dishes, once in a while an 8 oz would be best or 2oz if you’re just trying it out!
If Berbere is not available in your city, you can check out my Berbere here. All of my spice blends are imported from Ethiopia to give you an authentic flavor!
