Embark on a culinary journey to Ethiopia with this simple and delicious recipe for Lega Tibs Cubed. Lega Tibs is a popular Ethiopian dish known for its flavorful and tender pieces of beef, seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices and herbs. This recipe provides a simplified version that’s easy to make at home, even if you’re new to Ethiopian cuisine. Get ready to experience a delightful explosion of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Ethiopia. This dish is traditionally served with injera, a spongy flatbread, and can be customized to your preferred level of spiciness. This recipe provides a home-style approach to preparing Lega Tibs Cubed, ensuring an authentic taste without requiring specialized techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. The key to perfect Lega Tibs Cubed lies in the quality of the beef and the precise balance of spices, creating a harmonious blend that is both savory and aromatic. It is a perfect meal to enjoy with family and friends. Follow along and discover the secrets to creating authentic Lega Tibs Cubed in your own kitchen.
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition per serving (approximate): Calories: 450; Protein: 35g; Fat: 25g; Carbohydrates: 15g. (These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef (such as sirloin or round), cubed into 1-inch pieces | 1.5 lbs |
| Red onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Ginger, minced | 1 tablespoon |
| Berbere spice blend | 2-3 tablespoons (adjust to your spice preference) |
| Niter Kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter) or regular clarified butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced (optional) | 1/2 – 1, to taste |
| Fresh rosemary, chopped (optional) | 1 sprig |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Injera (for serving) | As needed |
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Pat the cubed beef dry with paper towels. This will help ensure a good sear. Season the beef generously with salt and black pepper.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or pan, heat the vegetable oil and Niter Kibbeh (or clarified butter) over medium-high heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté until softened and slightly translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sear the Beef: Increase the heat to high. Add the seasoned beef to the pan in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Sear the beef on all sides until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes total. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor. If you have a smaller pan, sear the beef in batches.
- Incorporate the Berbere Spice: Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the Berbere spice blend, ensuring that all the beef pieces are coated evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors. Adjust the amount of Berbere spice to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Add Jalapeño and Rosemary (Optional): If desired, add the thinly sliced jalapeño pepper and chopped fresh rosemary to the pan. Stir well and cook for another minute to infuse the flavors.
- Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the Lega Tibs Cubed simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the beef is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if the pan becomes too dry.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the Lega Tibs Cubed and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the Lega Tibs Cubed hot with Injera. Traditionally, you tear off pieces of Injera and use them to scoop up the Tibs. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with Injera (Ethiopian flatbread) for an authentic experience.
- Pair with a side of Ethiopian vegetables like Gomen (collard greens) or Atakilt Wat (cabbage and potatoes).
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
- Enjoy with a cold Ethiopian beer or a glass of Tej (Ethiopian honey wine).
Tips and Notes:
- Beef Selection: Sirloin or round steak are excellent choices for Lega Tibs Cubed, as they become tender when cooked properly. Ensure the beef is fresh and of good quality.
- Berbere Spice: Berbere is a key ingredient in Ethiopian cuisine, providing a complex blend of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, basil, and other spices. You can find Berbere spice blends at most Ethiopian grocery stores or online. If you can’t find Berbere, you can make your own blend using a combination of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, ginger powder, and other spices to taste.
- Niter Kibbeh: Niter Kibbeh is Ethiopian spiced clarified butter, infused with garlic, ginger, and various spices. It adds a unique flavor to the dish. If you can’t find Niter Kibbeh, you can use regular clarified butter (ghee) or a combination of butter and spices.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Berbere spice and jalapeño pepper according to your spice preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed.
- Marinating the Beef: For an even more flavorful Lega Tibs Cubed, you can marinate the beef with Berbere spice, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Slow Cooking: If you prefer a more tender and flavorful result, you can slow cook the Lega Tibs Cubed in a slow cooker or Dutch oven for several hours.
- Vegetarian option: Tofu and mushrooms are often substituted in place of the cubed beef.
- Storage: Lega Tibs Cubed can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Consistency: Adding a touch of cornstarch and water slurry towards the last few minutes of the simmering will increase the thickness of the sauce.
- Variations: Some variations of Lega Tibs Cubed include adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes.
- Additional Spices: Other spices that can be added to Lega Tibs Cubed include cardamom, cumin, and coriander.
Making Ethiopian Lega Tibs Cubed is a rewarding culinary experience. With its rich blend of spices and tender beef, this dish offers a true taste of Ethiopia. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to your liking. The aroma of the spices filling your kitchen as you prepare the Lega Tibs Cubed is truly enticing, promising a meal that is both satisfying and flavorful. The key to perfect Lega Tibs Cubed is in the quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail in each step of the cooking process. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and vegetables to create your own unique version of this classic Ethiopian dish. Serve it with Injera and your favorite Ethiopian sides for a complete and authentic meal. The combination of the savory Lega Tibs Cubed and the spongy Injera is a match made in heaven, providing a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. As you enjoy your homemade Lega Tibs Cubed, take a moment to appreciate the rich culinary heritage of Ethiopia and the vibrant flavors that make Ethiopian cuisine so unique. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor the authentic taste of Ethiopian Lega Tibs Cubed in the comfort of your own home. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, a journey of flavors that will leave you wanting more. With each bite, you’ll discover new nuances and complexities, making Lega Tibs Cubed a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. From the preparation to the serving, every step of the process is a testament to the artistry and tradition of Ethiopian cooking. So, embrace the challenge, explore the flavors, and create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. Ethiopian Lega Tibs Cubed is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of culture, flavor, and the joy of cooking.
Enjoy your homemade Ethiopian Lega Tibs Cubed!
