| Himbasha | |
| Country: | Eritrea, Ethiopia |
| Region: | Eritrean highlands, Amhara, Tigray |
| Type: | Sweet bread |
| Main Ingredient: | Cardamom seeds, candied ginger, raisins |
Himbasha [1] or Ambasha, is an Ethiopian and Eritrean celebration bread that is slightly sweet.[2] [3] It became popular in Eritrean cuisine, often served at special occasions. It is prepared in a number of varieties depending on region and nationality with the main two being the quintessential Ethiopian variant, and the more distinctive Eritrean flavoring with raisins.
The dough is given a decorative touch before baking. The design varies in detail, but in general, is given the shape of a wheel with indentations to create several spokes (see picture).
Common additions to the recipe include candied orange, ginger, or ground cardamom seeds, although plain varieties are not unheard of.