World Flavors Cookbook

Genfo (Barley Porridge)

Ethiopia's ancient barley porridge — a thick, smooth dome of roasted barley flour with a well of spiced butter and berbere in the center.

Cuisine: Ethiopia

Ingredients

• 1 cup roasted barley flour (beso)
• 2 cups water
• Pinch of salt
• 3 tbsp niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced butter)
• 1 tbsp berbere spice
• Honey or yogurt for serving

Instructions

1. Bring water and salt to a boil.
2. Add barley flour gradually, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon.
3. Continue stirring over medium heat until very thick and smooth, pulling from sides.
4. Shape into a dome on a plate. Make a well in the center.
5. Melt niter kibbeh and mix with berbere. Pour into the well.
6. Eat by pinching off pieces and dipping into the spiced butter.