Mitmita is a traditional Ethiopian spice blend made from ground African bird’s eye chili peppers and an array of spices, known for its bold heat and lively flavors. Unlike cayenne, Mitmita offers more than just heat — its bright, almost citrusy acidity adds a fresh, zesty kick that elevates any dish with layered complexity.

I first started experimenting with Mitmita when dabbling with some Ethiopian recipes, but quickly grew to love it and appreciate it for its incredible flavor and versatility. I use this as a one to one substitute for cayenne and at every turn find it to be a better choice. It adds a much more nuanced and layered flavor than a straight cayenne, but it has quite the kick so remember, "a little dab will do ya!"