I love berbere spice, a classic Ethiopian spice blend, but it never occurred to me to make my own. Actually, authentic berbere spice would use whole spice seeds/pods, toasted, and ground. But I usually toast the spices during the cooking process. Berbere is one of the most delicious and versatile spice mixes ever.

Chef John
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Ingredients

48
Original recipe yields 48 servings
The ingredient list now reflects the servings specified
Ingredient Checklist

Directions

Instructions Checklist
  • Place the ground chilies, paprika, and cayenne pepper into a bowl; stir. Add onion powder, ginger, cumin, coriander, cardamom, fenugreek, garlic powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. Gently whisk together until thoroughly mixed.

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  • Store in an airtight container, preferably glass.

Chef's Note:

One of my favorite ways to use berbere spices is this Spiced Chicken Breasts recipe.

Nutrition Facts

3 calories; 0.1 g total fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 0 mg sodium. 0.6 g carbohydrates; 0.1 g protein; Full Nutrition

Reviews (8)

Most helpful positive review

Rating: 5 stars
11/17/2016
Was awesome with Chef John's chicken recipe. Can't wait to try it with other meat combinations Read More
(5)
11 Ratings
  • 5 star values: 10
  • 4 star values: 1
  • 3 star values: 0
  • 2 star values: 0
  • 1 star values: 0
Rating: 5 stars
11/17/2016
Was awesome with Chef John's chicken recipe. Can't wait to try it with other meat combinations Read More
(5)
Rating: 5 stars
11/17/2016
Was awesome with Chef John's chicken recipe. Can't wait to try it with other meat combinations Read More
(5)
Rating: 5 stars
09/08/2017
Excellent rub for pork ribs. Read More
(1)
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Rating: 5 stars
10/30/2017
Love this! Read More
(1)
Rating: 5 stars
12/20/2017
Delicious on eggs. Read More
(1)
Rating: 5 stars
01/21/2019
This is so good. I made it yesterday and the chicken was so tasty. I will be making this again when I run out. Read More
(1)
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Rating: 5 stars
07/20/2018
I did not have lime and Tomato paste so I substituted lemon juice and Heinz Ketchup.How the flavor of the sauce developed as it thickened. This is my new signature dish. Thank you for sharing this recipe Alan Ehmke Read More
Rating: 5 stars
08/18/2019
This is my all-time favorite spice blend! It tastes amazing added to almost any dish. Some of my favorite ways to use it are as a dry rub for baked chicken wings, pan fried pork chops, cottage pie, and even just sprinkled over french fries for an added kick. I keep a large jar of it on hand for whenever inspiration strikes. If your grocery store sells bulk spices, that’s the best way to make this blend without spending a ton on money, since you can just buy what you need. Read More
Rating: 4 stars
05/06/2019
I lessened the amount of chilli by 1/4 cup & used sweet paprika I like hot but not unbearably hot Read More