Sweet Hembesha

Sweet Hembesha Recipe from Eritrea | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Eritrea | Servings: 8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Sweet Hembesha is a traditional Eritrean and Ethiopian sweet bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. This delicious bread is flavored with cumin and raisins, giving it a unique and delightful taste.

History

Hembesha has been a staple in Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine for centuries. It is often served during special occasions and celebrations, such as weddings and holidays. The sweet version of Hembesha, known as Sweet Hembesha, is a popular treat enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

250 ml lukewarm milk
25 g fresh yeast
1 tsp cumin
50 g sugar
100 g soaked raisins
1 tsp salt
2 eggs
100 ml margarine or butter
500 g flour

How to prepare

Dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water in a large bowl.
Mix the egg and spices.
Add the flour gradually.
Knead the mixture for 10 minutes on a floured surface.
Allow the dough to rise, covered with a tea towel, in a warm place.
Knead the mixture again and shape it into a round, flat bread (2 centimeters high) on a frying pan.
Allow the dough to rise a second time in a warm place until its volume has doubled.
Decorate the bread with a knife or nails (refer to picture below).
Bake the bread in the covered frying pan for 10 minutes over medium to low heat.
Flip the bread and bake for another 5 minutes.
Remove the bread from the frying pan and spread it with water and butter.
Serve the bread warm or cold in wedges.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the dough for added texture and flavor.
Substitute honey for sugar for a different sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure the yeast is fresh and active to ensure the bread rises properly.

- Knead the dough well to develop gluten and create a light and fluffy texture.

- Allow the dough to rise in a warm place to help it double in size.

- Decorate the bread with a unique design using a knife or nails before baking for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Hembesha can be enjoyed on its own or served with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast or as a snack.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough well is essential for creating a light and fluffy bread.

- Allowing the dough to rise twice helps develop the flavor and texture of the bread.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use active dry yeast instead of fresh yeast.

- Margarine can be used instead of butter.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sweet Hembesha on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh herbs or flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Sweet Hembesha pairs well with a cup of spiced tea or coffee for a delightful treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Sweet Hembesha in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sweet Hembesha contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sweet Hembesha contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Sweet Hembesha contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Sweet Hembesha contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Sweet Hembesha is a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6.

Alergens

Sweet Hembesha contains gluten, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

Sweet Hembesha is a delicious sweet bread that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious treat.

Summary

Sweet Hembesha is a delicious and traditional Eritrean and Ethiopian sweet bread that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With its unique flavor and delightful texture, this bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Sweet Hembesha. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining brightly, and the aroma of spices filled the air. I was visiting my friend Sara, who was known in our community for her delicious baked goods. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could tell that something special was in the oven.

Sara greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. "I'm making Sweet Hembesha today," she said, as she pulled a golden, fragrant loaf from the oven. The smell was intoxicating - a blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves that made my mouth water. I couldn't wait to taste it.

As Sara sliced the loaf and offered me a piece, I closed my eyes and took a bite. The bread was soft and moist, with just the right amount of sweetness. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make Sweet Hembesha for myself.

"Would you mind sharing the recipe with me?" I asked Sara eagerly. She chuckled and nodded, handing me a faded piece of paper with handwritten instructions. "It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations," she explained. "I'm honored to share it with you."

I thanked Sara profusely and hurried home to try my hand at baking Sweet Hembesha. As I gathered the ingredients and followed the steps, I felt a sense of connection to my own heritage. The recipe called for simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and yeast, but it was the combination of spices that truly made it special.

After hours of kneading, rising, and baking, I finally pulled my own loaf of Sweet Hembesha from the oven. The scent wafted through my kitchen, drawing my family to the table. They eagerly tried a piece, their eyes widening in delight.

"This is amazing, Grandma!" my granddaughter exclaimed, taking another bite. My heart swelled with pride as I watched them enjoy the fruits of my labor. I knew that this recipe would become a cherished tradition in our family.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my Sweet Hembesha recipe, tweaking the spices and methods to suit my own tastes. I shared it with friends and neighbors, who all raved about its unique flavor and texture. It became a staple at family gatherings and special occasions, a symbol of love and tradition.

As I grew older, I realized that the true magic of Sweet Hembesha was not just in its taste, but in the memories it brought back. Every time I baked a loaf, I thought of Sara and the day she introduced me to this delicious treat. I remembered the warmth of her kitchen, the laughter we shared, and the sense of community that surrounded us.

Now, as I pass this recipe on to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will continue the tradition and make Sweet Hembesha a part of your own family history. May it bring you joy, connection, and a taste of the past with every bite. And remember, the secret ingredient is always love. Enjoy!