Introduction: Ethiopian Cuisine
Ethiopian cuisine is known for its flavorful and spicy dishes, such as injera (a sourdough flatbread) and wat (a spicy stew). However, it is often overlooked that Ethiopia also has a variety of desserts and sweets to offer.
Traditional Ethiopian Desserts
Ethiopian desserts are often simple, made with basic ingredients found in the kitchen. Most of them are sweet, nutty, and crunchy, which makes them the perfect ending to a spicy meal. Here are some of the most popular Ethiopian desserts and sweets:
Keshta: Sweet Cheese
Keshta is a traditional Ethiopian dessert made with fresh cheese, honey, and spices. The cheese is usually made from goat or cow milk and mixed with sugar, cardamom, and cinnamon. Keshta is served cold and can be garnished with raisins or nuts.
Beso: Spiced Flour Balls
Beso is a sweet snack made with roasted flour, sugar, and spices. The flour is first roasted until it turns brown, then mixed with sugar and spices such as cinnamon and cloves. The mixture is then rolled into bite-sized balls and served as a snack.
Dabo Kolo: Crunchy Snack
Dabo Kolo is a crunchy snack made with barley flour, spices, and oil. The flour is mixed with spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika, then fried in oil until crispy. Dabo Kolo can be served as a snack or as a side dish with tea or coffee.
Kolo: Roasted Barley
Kolo is a popular Ethiopian snack made with roasted barley. The barley is roasted until it turns brown and crunchy, then seasoned with salt and spices such as chili powder and cumin. Kolo is usually served with beer or other drinks.
Ambasha: Sweet Bread
Ambasha is a sweet bread made with flour, sugar, and yeast. The dough is flavored with spices such as cardamom and cinnamon, then baked until golden brown. Ambasha is often served with tea or coffee, and can also be used to make sandwiches.
Genfo: Porridge with Honey and Butter
Genfo is a porridge made with roasted barley flour, water, and spices. It is usually served for breakfast, and can be sweetened with honey and butter. Genfo is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for cold mornings.
In conclusion, Ethiopian cuisine offers a range of desserts and sweets that are simple but delicious. From sweet cheese to spiced flour balls, Ethiopian desserts are the perfect way to end a spicy meal or to enjoy as a snack.
