One of the highlights of our time in Addis Ababa was diving into the incredible world of Ethiopian cuisine. From the moment we arrived, we couldn’t wait to try authentic dishes in the heart of the country they come from—and we weren’t disappointed. Ethiopian food is all about sharing, and every meal felt like an experience in itself. We ordered a large platter of injera topped with a variety of stews, lentils, vegetables, and meats. Injera, the spongy sourdough flatbread, is the centerpiece of every meal and also acts as your utensil. It was fun to scoop up the different dishes with pieces of injera, tasting a bit of everything in one bite. The flavors were bold and unique, with a perfect mix of spices and textures that made each dish stand out. One of Jared’s favorite dishes was doro wat, a rich, spicy chicken stew served with a boiled egg. The berbere spice blend gave it a deep, fiery flavor, and the slow-cooked chicken was so tender it practically fell apart. I really loved tibs, which are sautéed pieces of meat flavored with garlic, onions, and spices. Even the vegetarian options, like shiro (a chickpea stew) and misir wat (spiced lentils), were so flavorful they could easily hold their own. Jared has completely fallen in love with Ethiopian coffee—he’s been indulging in a few double shots of espresso every day. The rich, bold flavors have set a new standard for him, and he’s savoring every sip like it’s the best coffee he’s ever had. Every meal was a celebration of flavor, culture, and community. Eating in Addis Ababa felt like more than just dining; it was a way to connect with the country and its people. Ethiopian food is unlike anything else, and we’re already dreaming about the next time we’ll get to taste it again.
