Tsebhi Derho

Tsebhi Derho is a traditional Eritrean chicken stew known for its rich, spicy flavors and robust ingredients. This hearty dish is typically enjoyed with injera, a sourdough flatbread, making it a staple in Eritrean cuisine. Follow this recipe to bring the authentic taste of Tsebhi Derho to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2.5 lbs chicken pieces (1.13 kg)
• 1/4 cup berbere spice mix (0.06 kg)
• 3 large onions, finely chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (0.06 l)
• 2 cups tomato puree (0.48 l)
• 1 cup chicken broth (0.24 l)
• 2 tsp ground cumin (0.004 kg)
• 2 tsp ground coriander (0.004 kg)
• 1 tsp ground cardamom (0.002 kg)
• 3 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions

   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are soft and golden brown, about 10 minutes.

2. Add the Garlic and Spices

   Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 2 minutes. Stir in the berbere spice mix, cumin, coriander, and cardamom. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant.

3. Cook the Chicken

   Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.

4. Add the Tomato and Broth

   Pour in the tomato puree and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Season with salt to taste.

5. Add the Eggs

   During the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the hard-boiled eggs to the stew, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

Serving

Serve Tsebhi Derho hot with traditional injera bread. If injera is not available, it can also be served with rice or flatbread. This dish pairs well with a side of fresh salad or sautéed vegetables.

Tsebhi Derho is a flavorful and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Eritrean cuisine. Its spicy, rich sauce and tender chicken make it a favorite for family meals. Enjoy the warm, hearty flavors of this traditional stew with your loved ones.