Introduction: Eritrean Cuisine
Eritrean cuisine is a diverse and flavorful blend of African, Middle Eastern, and European influences. The country’s location on the coast of the Red Sea has allowed it to incorporate seafood into its culinary traditions, while its proximity to Ethiopia has led to the sharing of ingredients and dishes. Eritrean cuisine is known for its spicy sauces, stews, and grilled meats, as well as its injera bread, which is a staple of the diet.
Breads and Pastries
Injera is a sourdough flatbread that is central to Eritrean cuisine. It is made from teff flour, which is a grain that is native to Ethiopia and Eritrea. Injera is used as a utensil for scooping up stews and sauces, and it is also enjoyed on its own as a snack. Another popular bread in Eritrea is dabo, which is a sweet, soft bread that is often served with honey or cheese. Burek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat, is another common snack in Eritrea.
Meat and Cheese Finger Foods
One popular meat-based finger food in Eritrea is sebhi, which is grilled beef or lamb that is marinated in a spicy sauce. It is often served on skewers with vegetables. Another common meat snack is siga tibs, which are small pieces of beef or lamb that are pan-fried with onions and spices. As for cheese, Eritrea is known for its fresh, crumbly white cheese, which is often served with dabo bread or as a topping for stews.
Spicy Plant-Based Appetizers
Shiro is a spicy chickpea or lentil stew that is often served as an appetizer. It is made with garlic, onions, and berbere, a spice blend that includes chili peppers, ginger, and fenugreek. Another popular plant-based snack is ful, which is a dip made from fava beans that are mashed with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It is served with dabo bread or injera.
Fresh and Crunchy Salads
Tsebhi dorho is a chicken stew that is often served with a side of salad. The salad typically includes tomatoes, onions, and jalapeno peppers, and it is dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. Another common salad is timtimo, which is made from sprouted lentils that are mixed with diced onions, tomatoes, and green peppers.
Soups and Stews
Zigni is a spicy beef or lamb stew that is often served with injera. It is made with berbere, garlic, tomatoes, and onions. Alicha is a milder stew that is made with chicken or beef, potatoes, and carrots. It is flavored with turmeric, ginger, and garlic. Both zigni and alicha are hearty and filling dishes that are perfect for a cold day.
Dips and Sauces
Awaze is a spicy dipping sauce that is made from berbere, garlic, and olive oil. It is often served with sebhi or other grilled meats. Berbere sauce is another popular condiment in Eritrea. It is made from the same spice blend as berbere, but it is mixed with tomato paste and other ingredients to create a thicker, more savory sauce.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
Bambino is a sweet, cake-like dessert that is made from semolina flour, sugar, and butter. It is often flavored with cardamom and cinnamon. Another popular dessert is halva, which is a sweet, dense confection made from sesame seeds and honey. It is often served with coffee or tea.