Asa (Fish) Tibs
Ethiopian fish tibs - a flavorful dish of pan-seared fish sautéed with onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, and the signature Ethiopian spice blend, berbere. Traditionally served with injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600g Firm white fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or snapper)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 medium Yellow onion
- 2 medium Ripe tomatoes
- 2 Jalapeño peppers
- 1 tablespoon Berbere spice blend(This is a key Ethiopian spice blend. Available at specialty stores or online. Adjust amount to your spice preference.)
- 4 tablespoons Neutral cooking oil (such as vegetable or canola)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the fish: Pat the fish chunks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt. Set aside.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice the onions, dice the tomatoes, and thinly slice the jalapeño peppers (removing seeds and membranes will reduce heat).
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Sear the fish: Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the fish chunks in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if necessary). Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and just cooked through. The fish should flake easily. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside on a plate.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Sauté the aromatics: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to the same skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the berbere spice blend and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the spices.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 5
Add vegetables: Stir in the diced tomatoes and sliced jalapeños. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to break down and release their juices, creating a light sauce.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Combine and serve: Gently return the seared fish chunks to the skillet. Toss carefully to coat the fish with the vegetable and berbere mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just to heat the fish through. Serve immediately, traditionally with injera.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a firm white fish that holds its shape when cooked, such as tilapia, cod, snapper, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- ✓Do not overcook the fish; it should be flaky and moist. Searing it separately and adding it back at the end helps prevent it from breaking apart.
- ✓Berbere is a complex spice blend; taste and adjust the amount to suit your heat preference. If you can't find it, a mix of paprika, cayenne, ginger, garlic powder, and cumin can be a substitute, though the flavor will differ.
- ✓For a fasting-friendly version (common during Ethiopian Orthodox fasting periods), omit the fish and use firm tofu or extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Increase the berbere for a spicier, more intense flavor.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of tamarind paste at the end for brightness.
- Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.