An authentic Ethiopian fermented milk, Ergo, resembles a tangy sour cream with a yogurt-like consistency. This dish serves as a cooling complement to Ethiopia’s spiciest dishes, such as Doro Wot and Siga Wot. It is a staple at gatherings, holidays, and celebrations. When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it remains fresh for up to two weeks.
Equipment Recommendations to Make Ergo
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Ergo Recipe: How to Make Ethiopian Yogurt
An authentic Ethiopian fermented milk, Ergo, resembles a tangy sour cream with a yogurt-like consistency. This dish serves as a cooling complement to Ethiopia’s spiciest dishes, such as Doro Wot and Siga Wot. It is a staple at gatherings, holidays, and celebrations.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 7 servings 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Ferment/Mix
- Cuisine: Ethiopian
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Place the whole milk in a medium pot and bring it to a boil over low heat, stirring continuously to prevent scorching. Once the milk comes to a boil, remove it from the heat.
- Allow the boiled milk to cool in the pot for 15 minutes.
- Transfer the slightly cooled milk to an airtight container.
- Add the sour cream to the milk and mix well to combine.
- If using the optional rue plant, place the sprig on top of the milk for garnish and additional flavor. Rue plant is known for its strong aromatic qualities, so a little goes a long way.
- Cover the container and set it aside in a dry spot at room temperature for 24 hours. It’s important not to refrigerate the mixture, as it won’t ferment quickly enough at colder temperatures.
- After 24 hours, check the yogurt. It should have thickened and developed a tangy flavor due to the fermentation process.
- Remove the rue plant and discard it.
- Serve the homemade Ethiopian-style yogurt on the side of your favorite Ethiopian dish or salad.
Notes
- Tena Adam (rue plant, also known as herb-of-grace), is optional and adds a unique flavor to the yogurt. If you choose to use it, be mindful of its strong aroma, and use it sparingly. You can find rue plant at garden centers, farmers’ markets, or online.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 240g
- Calories: 195 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg