Ethiopian Mitmita Spice Blend Recipe
Spices play a vital role in Ethiopian cuisine. Historically, Ethiopia's proximity to the Red Sea allowed it to control the spice trade, leading to the introduction of numerous spices and the creation of unique blends like Mitmita and Berbere. Mitmita is a traditional Ethiopian spice blend typically made with ingredients such as ginger, cumin, cardamom, and cloves, though the specific spices vary by recipe. However, one constant in every Mitmita blend is African bird’s eye chili peppers.
Ingredients
- Bird's eye chili peppers – 20
- Cumin seeds – 2 tbsp
- Green cardamom pods (seeds only) – 10
- Korarima seeds (Ethiopian cardamom) – 10
- Black peppercorns – 1 tbsp
- Allspice berries – 1 tbsp
- Ground ginger – 1 tbsp
- Garlic powder – 2 tsp
- Cloves – 2 tsp
- Cinnamon stick – 1
- Salt (preferably Ethiopian) – 2 tsp
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, roast the whole spices (cinnamon, seeds, and berries) and the dry chilli peppers over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until the fragrance is released. Shake the pan frequently to prevent the mixture from burning.
- Transfer to a bowl and let cool completely, stir occasionally
- Place the cooled mixture and all the other ingredients in a spice or coffee grinder, and blend into a powder.
- Store in an airtight glass jar, away from light and direct sunlight.
Nutrition
Calories: 55kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 2gFat: 1gSodium: 477mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g
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