Ethiopian Spiced Crunchy Bread Bites

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) wheat flour 2 cups (240g) wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• Oil for deep frying Oil for deep frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 24g, 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour, baking powder, salt, paprika, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. 2.
   Add the vegetable oil to the dry ingredients and mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   Gradually add water to the mixture while kneading the dough until it comes together and forms a smooth ball.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a ball.
5. 5.
   Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat.
6. 6.
   Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy.
7. 7.
   Remove the fried bread bites from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. 8.
   Allow the Dabo Kolo to cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Wheat flour — Ensure that the flour is fresh and free from any lumps for a smooth dough consistency.
• Vegetable oil — Use a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or sunflower oil, for frying the Dabo Kolo.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a pinch of Ethiopian berbere spice blend to the dough mixture.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the Dabo Kolo to ensure a crispy texture.
• Store the cooled Dabo Kolo in an airtight container to maintain its crunchiness.
• Serve with a side of spicy tomato chutney or Ethiopian lentil dip for a complete Ethiopian snack experience.

Serving advice

Serve Dabo Kolo as a snack on its own or as a side dish alongside Ethiopian stews, such as Doro Wat or Misir Wat. It pairs well with a cup of Ethiopian coffee or tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Dabo Kolo on a platter or in a bowl, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, for an appealing presentation. Consider serving it in traditional Ethiopian woven baskets or on a colorful Ethiopian-themed tablecloth to enhance the cultural experience.