Authentic Ethiopian Awaze Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Berbere spice
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons minced ginger
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl: Berbere spice, red wine, honey, minced ginger, minced garlic, and salt.
  2. Whisk everything together until you get a homogenous mixture.
  3. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil as you continue to whisk the mixture.
  4. Once all the oil is incorporated and you have a thick sauce, your Awaze is ready.
  5. Use it immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine all the ingredients.
  • Whisk - Used to mix and incorporate the ingredients together.
  • Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the Berbere spice, minced garlic, minced ginger, and salt.
  • Measuring Cup - Used to measure the red wine and honey.
  • Spoon - To drizzle the extra virgin olive oil into the mixture.
  • Airtight Container - For storing the Awaze in the fridge.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of wine such as white wine or a combination of red and white wine for a different flavor profile.
  • Experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar instead of honey.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to add a tangy twist to the Awaze.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Berbere spice or add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
  • Try substituting minced shallots or onions for the garlic and ginger for a milder flavor.
  • For a smokier taste, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
  • To make it vegetarian or vegan, replace the honey with a plant-based sweetener and use vegetable broth instead of wine.
  • For a thicker consistency, simmer the mixture on low heat until it reduces and thickens.

Recipe overview

Awaze is a potent and flavorful Ethiopian sauce that is known for its spicy, sweet, and savory notes. The main ingredient is Berbere spice, a fragrant blend that gives the sauce its heat. It's combined with honey for a touch of sweetness and red wine for depth and complexity. Minced garlic and ginger add a pungent kick, while the extra virgin olive oil brings it all together into a thick, rich sauce. This sauce is versatile and can be used as a marinade, a dipping sauce, or a condiment to add a punch of flavor to any meal. The recipe is simple and quick, with the total preparation time being just a few minutes. Store it in the fridge and it can be your go-to sauce for up to a week. Enjoy the vibrancy and dynamism of Ethiopian cuisine with this easy Awaze recipe!

Common questions

  1. Can I adjust the spiciness of the Awaze?
    Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of the Awaze by adding more or less Berbere spice according to your taste preferences.
  2. Can I substitute the red wine with something else?
    If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a tangy flavor.
  3. How long does it take to make Awaze?
    Making Awaze is quick and easy. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare.
  4. Can I store Awaze for later use?
    Yes, you can store Awaze in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to give it a good stir before using it again.
  5. Can I use Awaze as a marinade?
    Absolutely! Awaze makes a fantastic marinade for meats, poultry, or vegetables. Simply coat your protein or veggies with Awaze and let it marinate for at least 1 hour before cooking.
  6. Can I freeze Awaze?
    While it is possible to freeze Awaze, it may alter the consistency and flavor slightly. It is best to use Awaze fresh for optimal taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine and mix all the ingredients.
  • Whisk - To blend and incorporate the ingredients smoothly.
  • Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the Berbere spice, minced garlic, minced ginger, and salt.
  • Liquid Measuring Cup - For precise measurement of the red wine and honey.
  • Spatula - To scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are well combined.
  • Storage Container - An airtight container to store the Awaze sauce in the fridge.

Origin stories

Awaze originates from the Horn of Africa, specifically Ethiopia, where it is a staple condiment used in many traditional dishes. The key ingredient setting it apart is the Berbere spice, a mixture of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and other exotic spices, which gives Awaze its unique, smoky heat. Each Ethiopian household typically has their own version of Berbere, and thus Awaze, leading to a delightful variety of flavors across the region. The recipe has traversed generations, testifying to the rich culinary history of Ethiopia. Interestingly, Awaze also doubles as a marinade, showcasing its versatility in the Ethiopian kitchen. Known for its bold and robust flavor, Awaze truly embodies the spirit of Ethiopian cuisine – vibrant, warm, and inviting.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.