Ethiopian Kitfo (Spiced Minced Beef)
A classic Ethiopian dish featuring finely minced lean beef, traditionally served raw or very rare (leb leb) and seasoned generously with niter kibbeh (spiced clarified butter) and mitmita (a fiery spice blend). It's a truly unique and flavorful experience.
Ingredients
- •1.5 lb Lean beef (sirloin or tenderloin), trimmed of fat (finely minced or ground extra-lean)
- •1/2 cup Niter Kibbeh (Ethiopian Spiced Clarified Butter) (melted, adjust to taste)
- •2-3 tbsp Mitmita (Ethiopian Spice Blend) (adjust to desired spice level)
- •1/2 tsp Ground cardamom
- •to taste to taste Salt
- •1/4 tsp Koseret (Ethiopian false cardamom) (optional, if available)
- •1/2 cup Ayib (Ethiopian cottage cheese) or store-bought feta (for serving, crumbled)
- •8 pieces Injera (Ethiopian flatbread) (for serving)
Instructions
- 1.
Ensure your beef is very cold. If using a food processor, cut the beef into 1-inch cubes. Pulse in batches until very finely minced, almost like a paste, but not pureed. If using pre-ground beef, ensure it's extra lean and finely ground.
Time: 5 min - 2.
In a large bowl, combine the finely minced beef with the melted niter kibbeh, mitmita, ground cardamom, and koseret (if using). Add salt to taste.
Time: 2 min - 3.
Using your hands or a spoon, thoroughly mix all the ingredients until well combined. The warmth from your hands will slightly warm the meat, enhancing the flavors.
Time: 3 min - 4.
For 'leb leb' (lightly cooked) kitfo: If you prefer your kitfo lightly cooked, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned beef mixture and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, just until the beef changes color but is still very rare and tender. Do not overcook.
Time: 2 min - 5.
Serve the kitfo immediately on a platter. Garnish with crumbled Ayib or feta cheese. Serve alongside injera for scooping.
Time: 1 min
Tips
- 💡For the most authentic experience, seek out a good quality, very lean cut of beef. Ask your butcher to finely mince or grind it for kitfo.
- 💡Adjust the amount of mitmita to your personal spice preference. It can be quite hot!
- 💡Niter Kibbeh is crucial for authentic flavor. You can find recipes online to make it at home, or sometimes find it in international markets.
- 💡Kitfo is traditionally eaten with your hands, using pieces of injera to scoop up the meat.
Recipe from TheCookbook.ai
Created by Ruth H