How to make 4 Traditional Eritrean Dishes

berbere spice

🥗Healthier: homemade spice blend

💰Cheaper: cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper is more accessible and can mimic the heat.

chicken

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Turkey is leaner, while chicken thighs are often less expensive.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is budget-friendly while maintaining a neutral flavor.

cilantro

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: green onions

Parsley provides a fresh flavor and is often less costly.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add berbere spice and paprika, stirring for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

Incorporate diced tomatoes and cook until they break down, about 5 minutes.

Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

Pour in water to cover the chicken and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes until chicken is tender.

Add chopped carrots and potatoes, cooking until vegetables are soft, about 15-20 minutes.

Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: