Genfo (Ethiopian Teff Porridge)

🧂 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

🔄 Variations

• 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.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving