Tibsi Kebeb
Tibsi Kebeb is a flavorful Eritrean dish featuring sautéed meat, often beef or lamb, cooked with onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of aromatic spices. It's typically finished with niter kibbeh (spiced clarified butter), which adds a rich depth of flavor. This dish is a staple in Eritrean cuisine, known for its savory and slightly spicy profile.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef or Lamb(thinly sliced or cubed)
- 1 large Onion(thinly sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 2 tablespoons Berbere spice blend
- 3 tablespoons Niter Kibbeh (spiced clarified butter)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 Jalapeño or Serrano pepper(optional, finely chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
💡 Tip: Ensure the pan is hot before adding the meat. - 2
Add the sliced meat to the hot pan and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pan and set aside.
- 3
Add the sliced onions to the same pan and sauté until softened and translucent.
- 4
Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped jalapeño (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Stir in the berbere spice blend and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
- 6
Return the seared meat to the pan. Add salt to taste. Stir everything together to coat the meat evenly with the spices and aromatics.
💡 Tip: If the mixture seems dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of water. - 7
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 8
Stir in the niter kibbeh until melted and well combined. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
💡 Tip: Niter kibbeh adds a rich, spiced flavor. If unavailable, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute, though it won't have the same aromatic complexity. - 9
Serve hot, traditionally with injera (Eritrean flatbread) or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier dish, increase the amount of berbere or add more chili pepper.
- ✓Ensure you use good quality meat for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓Niter kibbeh is a key ingredient that provides a unique aromatic depth; try to find it if possible.
🔄 Variations
- Add chopped tomatoes or tomato paste along with the onions for a richer sauce.
- Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
- Use different cuts of meat like lamb shoulder or beef chuck.