Search locations or food
OR
Sign up
Himbasha | Traditional Sweet Bread From Eritrea | TasteAtlas

Himbasha

(Ambasha, H'mbasha, ሕምባሻ, አምባሻ,)

Himbasha or ambasha is a traditional and Ethiopian flatbread consisting of flour, water, yeast, sugar, sesame seeds, ground cardamom, and raisins (only in Eritrean version) resulting in a unique combination of sweet and savory flavors. It is characterized by a decorative wheel pattern that is scored on its top.


In Eritrea and Ethiopia, himbasha is traditionally consumed for breakfast after mass, but it is also a popular item at numerous festivities and celebrations. Interestingly, breaking this bread over the back of a child on his first birthday to give him strength is a local tradition.