Berbere Potatoes Recipe
Berbere Potatoes- a simple flavorful Ethiopian-inspired side dish that is healthy, delicious and vegan!

How to Make the Best Berbere Potatoes
These Berbere Potatoes bring the warm, complex flavors of Ethiopian cuisine right to your dinner table. Berbere is a traditional Ethiopian spice blend featuring chili peppers, fenugreek, coriander, and a medley of aromatic spices that transform simple potatoes into something truly special. This dish is not only packed with flavor but is also completely vegan and incredibly healthy.
The cooking method is what makes these potatoes so irresistible—starting on the stovetop to build a flavorful tomato and shallot base, then finishing in the oven allows the potatoes to become tender on the inside while developing slightly crispy edges. The berbere spice infuses every layer with its signature warmth and depth.
Serve these potatoes as a side dish alongside your favorite Ethiopian-inspired meal, or pair them with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The fresh parsley adds a bright finishing touch that balances the rich, spiced flavors perfectly.

Berbere Potatoes
Berbere Potatoes- a simple flavorful Ethiopian-inspired side dish that is healthy, delicious and vegan!
Ingredients
Berbere Potatoes
Instructions
Berbere Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a cast iron or oven-proof skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the shallots and sauté, stirring until tender, 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook 2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and their juices, and continue cooking until they begin to break down and soften, 3-4 minutes. Stir in the Berbere spice and the water.
- Scoop out ¾ cup of the mixture and set aside.
- Add the potatoes, tossing to coat each side, and layer them. Pour the remaining tomato mixture over top.
- Cover tightly with a lid or with foil. Bring to a hard simmer on the stovetop, then place in the oven for 30 minutes covered.
- Remove lid, checking that potatoes are fork-tender. Drizzle with olive oil and bake an additional 10 minutes uncovered.
- Scatter with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- Use thin-skinned potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for best results.
- Berbere spice can be found at specialty grocery stores or made at home with a blend of chili peppers, fenugreek, and warm spices.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with Ethiopian injera bread or as a side to grilled proteins.