Authentic Ethiopian Kitfo Recipe

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) high-quality beef, finely minced 500g (1.1 lb) high-quality beef, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter) 2 tablespoons niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter)
• 2 teaspoons mitmita (Ethiopian chili powder) 2 teaspoons mitmita (Ethiopian chili powder)
• 1 teaspoon korerima (Ethiopian cardamom), ground 1 teaspoon korerima (Ethiopian cardamom), ground
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Injera, for serving Injera, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 300 kcal / 1255 KJ
• Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 1g (Sugars: 0g)
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced beef, niter kibbeh, mitmita, korerima, garlic, ginger, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   If you prefer your kitfo raw, skip to step 3. For lightly cooked kitfo, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of niter kibbeh. Add the seasoned beef to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the meat is lightly browned.
3. 3.
   Transfer the kitfo to a serving plate and shape it into a mound. Serve immediately with injera.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Niter kibbeh — If you can't find niter kibbeh, you can make a substitute by melting unsalted butter and adding a pinch of turmeric, cardamom, and cloves.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kitfo, increase the amount of mitmita according to your taste preference.
• Make sure to use the freshest and highest-quality beef for the best flavor and texture.
• Serve the kitfo with traditional Ethiopian sides like ayib (Ethiopian cottage cheese) and gomen (Ethiopian collard greens) for a complete meal.
• If injera is not available, you can serve kitfo with lettuce leaves or other flatbreads.

Serving advice

Serve the kitfo on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Accompany it with injera and traditional Ethiopian sides for a complete and authentic dining experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the kitfo in a visually appealing mound shape on the platter. Drizzle a little niter kibbeh on top and sprinkle some extra mitmita for added color and flavor. Place injera around the kitfo, folded or rolled, ready to be enjoyed.