Genfo
Ethiopian Teff Porridge
Genfo is a hearty and traditional Ethiopian breakfast porridge made from teff flour, enriched with spiced clarified butter (niter kibbeh) and a kick of berbere spice. It's typically served thick and is a staple for starting the day.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Teff flour(Finely ground teff flour is traditional. Barley flour can be used as a substitute or in combination.)
- 600 ml Water(Cold or room temperature water is fine.)
- 60 g Niter kibbeh(Ethiopian spiced clarified butter. If unavailable, unsalted butter can be used, though it will lack the traditional flavor profile. You can also make your own niter kibbeh.)
- 2 tbsp Berbere spice blend(Adjust to your spice preference. This is a key Ethiopian spice mix.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt(Or to taste. You can add more salt to the water initially.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium saucepan, combine the water and salt. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 2
Gradually whisk in the teff flour, a little at a time, to prevent lumps. Once all the flour is added, reduce the heat to low and continue to stir vigorously and continuously with a wooden spoon or whisk. The mixture will start to thicken.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Keep stirring and cooking until the porridge is very thick and has a smooth, dough-like consistency. It should pull away from the sides of the pan. This process of cooking out the raw flour taste is crucial and takes about 10-12 minutes.
⏱️ 12 minutes - 4
Once the genfo has reached the desired thick consistency, spoon it into a serving bowl. Use the back of your spoon to create a well in the center of the porridge.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Gently melt the niter kibbeh in a small saucepan over low heat. Pour the melted niter kibbeh into the well you created in the genfo. Sprinkle the berbere spice blend over the butter in the well.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Serve immediately. Diners can then mix the spiced butter and berbere into their portion of the genfo as they eat, or the center can be shared.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The consistency should be very thick, similar to mashed potatoes or a very stiff dough.
- ✓Creating a well in the center is traditional for holding the spiced butter and berbere.
- ✓Genfo is a classic and satisfying Ethiopian breakfast dish.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a sweeter version, a drizzle of honey can be added alongside or instead of some of the niter kibbeh.
- Experiment with different flours like barley, sorghum, or a blend for varied textures and flavors.