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EthiopianAuthentic Cuisine

Himbasha Sweet Round

Serves 4 to 6 Pastry vegetarian, Breads & Pastry

Himbasha Sweet Round

Himbasha Sweet Round holds a cherished spot in Ethiopian households, especially during the intimate coffee ceremonies that punctuate daily life. This bread, with its inviting aroma, signals the start of shared moments around the coffee table. Crafted in a home kitchen, this version embraces the simplicity and warmth of traditional family cooking.

The flavor of Himbasha is a delicate balance of sweetness and spice, with the sugar and cardamom blending harmoniously. Its texture is both soft and slightly chewy, offering a comforting bite that pairs perfectly with the robust coffee it accompanies. The bread's golden crust gives way to a tender interior, making each piece a small delight.

Ingredients

  • 3 cupsall-purpose flour
  • 1 packetdry yeast
  • 1/4 cupsugar
  • 1/4 cupoil
  • 1 cupwarm water
  • 1 tspground cardamom
  • 1/2 tspfine salt

Method

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet of dry yeast, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom. Stir these dry ingredients together to ensure the yeast and cardamom are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
  2. Create a well in the center of the dry mixture and pour in 1 cup of warm water and 1/4 cup of oil. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry using a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Add 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt to the dough and knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic, no longer sticking to your hands or the surface.
  4. Place the kneaded dough back into the bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rest in a warm place until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the warmth of your kitchen.
  5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round, flat disc about 1 inch thick, using your hands to gently press it out.
  6. If using a mitad or skillet, heat it over medium heat and lightly grease with a small amount of oil. Place the dough onto the heated surface and cook for about 15-20 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  7. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shaped dough onto a greased baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  8. Allow the Himbasha Sweet Round to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve it warm, where its aromatic cardamom scent will invite everyone to gather around and enjoy.
Cover of Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Ethiopian volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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