Niter Kebbeh
a base flavour for many Ethiopian dishes

INGREDIENTS

1 pound soy margarine
4 tablespoons onion, finely chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped or pressed
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, scraped and finely grated or minced
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
4 green cardamom pods, crushed
1 cinnamon stick
3 whole cloves
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

METHOD

Slowly melt the margarine in a medium-sized saucepan over low heat.
Add the other ingredients and simmer uncovered on the lowest heat for about 20-30 minutes. Do not let it brown.
Strain the mixture through a double layer of cheesecloth or other such concoction, discarding the spices.
Refrigerate until set.
Use as needed in Ethiopian recipes or spread sporadically on toast.