When in Ethiopia, sample these desserts
What's the story
Ethiopia, a land of ancient cultures and traditions, holds a treasure trove of delicious desserts waiting to be discovered.
From honey-drenched delicacies to subtly sweet pastries, Ethiopian desserts offer a taste of the country's rich culinary history and unique flavors.
This article guides you through some of Ethiopia's most irresistible sweets, ideal for anyone looking to delve into the sweeter side of Ethiopian cuisine.
Snack time
Diving into dabo kolo
Dabo kolo is a beloved Ethiopian snack that comes in the form of small, crunchy bread pieces.
Crafted from wheat flour, sugar, and occasionally spiced with berbere for added warmth, these bite-sized delights are a staple during coffee ceremonies or a casual nibble throughout the day.
Beware though, the addictive crunch of dabo kolo makes it the ultimate "can't eat just one" treat.
Honey wine
The sweetness of tej
Tej is an Ethiopian honey wine that promises a liquid dessert experience.
This ancient drink is crafted from fermented honey and water, infused with the bitter notes of gesho leaves—Ethiopia's indigenous answer to hops.
Although not a dessert you can sink your teeth into, tej is the perfect partner to Ethiopia's sweet delights, cutting through their richness with its velvety sweetness.
Honey bread
Savoring yemarina yewotet dabo
Yemarina yewotet dabo, or "mother's honeycomb bread," earns its name with a soft, sweet texture reminiscent of the real deal.
This delicious bread infuses honey, cinnamon, and cloves into the dough for a fragrant dessert experience.
It goes perfectly with traditional Ethiopian coffee, so it's a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth exploring Ethiopia's culinary scene.
Porridge perfection
Indulging in genfo
Genfo is a thick barley or wheat porridge that holds a place of honor at special occasions in Ethiopia.
While traditionally consumed for breakfast, it can also be served as a dessert when sweetened with honey or spiced butter.
And, to enhance its flavor, the porridge is usually decorated with a topping of yogurt or additional honey.
Morning delight
Exploring Chechebsa
Chechebsa (also called kita firfir) is a beloved breakfast dish that also serves as a scrumptious dessert.
It's made of shredded flatbread combined with berbere spice and clarified butter (niter kibbeh).
Drizzled with honey for a touch of sweetness, chechebsa delivers a flavor experience unlike any other: spicy, buttery, and sweet all in one bite.