Shiro is a traditional Ethiopian curry made from chickpea flour, spices, and often served with injera.

What are the main ingredients in Shiro?

Key ingredients include chickpea flour (shiro powder), onions, garlic, ginger, and Berbere spice.

How long does Shiro take to make?

Shiro takes approximately 35-50 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Shiro?

Shiro is typically served with injera, rice, or accompanied by vegetables and salads.

Shiro Recipe – Ethiopia's Flavorful Curry

Name: Shiro
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 42 min
Yield: 3-4 servings
Cuisine: Ethiopia
Ingredients: berbere spice mix; black pepper; can tomatoes; chicken broth; chickpea flour shiro powder; cilantro; clarified butter niter kibbeh; cloves garlic; coriander; cumin; ginger; injera; onion; parsley for garnish; rice for serving; salt; turmeric; vegetable; vegetable oil

Shiro is a velvety, aromatic stew made from ground chickpea flour combined with fragrant Ethiopian spices and herbs. This ancient dish has been a cornerstone of Ethiopian vegetarian cooking, especially during Orthodox Christian fasting periods when meat is avoided. The rich, savory flavor and creamy texture come from the chickpea base enriched with onions, garlic, and Berbere spice blend. Ethiopians have refined this recipe over centuries, making it central to daily meals and celebrations. Experience the soul-warming comfort of authentic Ethiopian Shiro.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~290 kcal / serving

Ingredients

1 cup chickpea flour (shiro powder)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or clarified butter (niter kibbeh)
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
2 tablespoons Berbere spice mix
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Injera or rice, for serving

Instructions

Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil or clarified butter over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Spices

Stir in the Berbere spice mix, ground cumin, ground coriander, and ground turmeric. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Prepare the Shiro

Gradually add the chickpea flour (shiro powder) to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shiro?

Shiro is an Ethiopian vegetarian stew made from roasted and ground chickpea flour combined with aromatic spices and broth. The result is a creamy, savory dish with deep, complex flavors from the Berbere spice blend.

Where does Shiro come from?

Shiro originates from Ethiopia, where it has been a staple for generations. It is especially important in Ethiopian Orthodox Christian tradition as a meatless dish during fasting periods.

What are the main ingredients?

The essential ingredients are chickpea flour (shiro powder), onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, Berbere spice, clarified butter, and vegetable or chicken broth.

Any tips for making Shiro?

Add the chickpea flour gradually while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer gently and stir occasionally to develop full flavor and achieve the desired creamy consistency.

What to serve with Shiro?

Shiro is traditionally served on injera (Ethiopian flatbread), which both accompanies and serves as an edible plate. It pairs well with rice, Ethiopian salads, or vegetable dishes.

Shiro