BreakfastMain Course

Ethiopian Genfo

Name: Ethiopian Genfo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: ethiopian
Ingredients: 2.5 cup barley flour; 4 cup water; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.5 cup vegetable oil; 2 tbsp berbere spice blend; 1 pcs green chili finely chopped (optional)

Genfo is a traditional Ethiopian breakfast porridge made from barley flour. It's typically served with a spicy clarified butter sauce, but this vegan version uses a flavorful oil-based dip. The porridge has a thick, smooth texture and is surprisingly filling.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time: 40 min
Serves: 4
Difficulty: Medium
Per serving: 773 kcal

VeganVegetarian

Allergen information: may contain gluten. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Mise en place

Ingredients

porridge

2.5 cupbarley flour
4 cupwater
0.5 tspsalt

sauce

0.5 cupvegetable oil
2 tbspberbere spice blend

garnish

1 pcsgreen chili, finely chopped(optional)

Equipment

large pot · small saucepan · whisk · serving platter

The method

Step by step

1
Bring the water and salt to a rolling boil in a large pot over high heat.
About 5 min
2
Gradually add the barley flour to the boiling water, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: Adding the flour slowly is key to a smooth genfo.
3
Once all the flour is incorporated, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and allow the genfo to simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
About 25 min
Cook’s note: The genfo should be very thick and pull away from the sides of the pot when done.
4
While the genfo simmers, prepare the dipping sauce. Heat the vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
About 2 min
5
Once the oil is hot, remove it from the heat and stir in the berbere spice blend.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Be careful not to burn the berbere; it can become bitter.
6
Once the genfo is cooked, remove it from the heat. Carefully transfer it to a large serving platter or individual bowls, shaping it into a mound with a well in the center using a spoon or your hands (if cool enough).
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Wet your hands or spoon with a little water to prevent sticking while shaping.
7
Pour the berbere oil sauce into the well of the genfo. Garnish with chopped green chili, if using.
8
Serve immediately and enjoy by dipping pieces of the genfo into the spicy oil.

Per serving

Nutrition

75%Score

Calories: 773.4kcal
Protein: 15.7g
Carbs: 101g
Fat: 31.3g
Fibre: 15.1g
Sugar: 1.8g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftover genfo and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat genfo gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water. Reheat sauce in a small pan.