Zilzil Wot: Spicy Beef Strip Stew

• •1.5 lb Beef sirloin or flank steak (cut into 1/2-inch thick strips)
• •2 medium Red onions (finely chopped)
• •4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• •1 tbsp Fresh ginger (grated)
• •3 tbsp Berbere spice blend (adjust to taste for spiciness)
• •2 tbsp Tomato paste
• •1.5 cup Beef broth
• •3 tbsp Niter Kibbeh (spiced clarified butter) or unsalted butter/oil (Niter Kibbeh adds authentic flavor)
• •1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
• •0.5 tsp Black pepper (or to taste)
• •1 piece Jalapeño (seeded and thinly sliced, for garnish (optional))
• •0.3 cup Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish (optional))

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat the Niter Kibbeh (or butter/oil) in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped red onions and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until very soft and lightly caramelized.

2. 2

   Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. 3

   Stir in the berbere spice blend and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and deepen their flavor.

4. 4

   Add the beef strips to the pot. Increase heat to high and sear the beef for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. It doesn't need to be cooked through at this stage.

5. 5

   Pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it gently simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. 6

   Serve the Zilzil Wot hot, garnished with sliced jalapeño and fresh cilantro if desired. It's traditionally enjoyed with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or can be served over rice.

Chef's Tips

• 💡For a deeper, more authentic flavor, allow the onions to cook down longer until very soft and almost jam-like before adding other ingredients.
• 💡If you can't find Niter Kibbeh, you can make your own or substitute with ghee or a mix of unsalted butter and a touch of neutral oil. Adding a pinch of ground cardamom and fenugreek to your butter/oil can mimic some of the Niter Kibbeh spices.
• 💡Adjust the amount of berbere spice to your preference. If you like it extra hot, add more; for milder, start with less.