Entree: Ethiopia – Harar – ዝልዝል ጥብስ ➤ Zilzil Tibs (Pan-seared strips of spiced beef sautéed with onions and peppers in Ethiopian style)
Serving Size: 4
Approximate Time
Prep
20 min
Cook
10 min
Additional
15 min
Total
45 min
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb (680 g) beef sirloin or top round, trimmed and cut into thin 1/4-inch strips
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter)
- 2 tbsp (18 g) berbere spice mix
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced, about 6 oz (170 g)
- 1–2 jalapeños or Ethiopian peppers (mitmita optional), sliced, about 1.5 oz (45 g)
- 1 large tomato, diced, about 6 oz (170 g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tsp (5 g) salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp (1.5 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) lemon juice or awaze (optional)
- Fresh parsley or Ethiopian korarima leaves (optional) for garnish
Instructions
1. Pat the beef strips dry and season with 1 tsp (5 g) salt, 1/2 tsp (1.5 g) pepper, and 2 tbsp (18 g) berbere. Toss to coat and let sit 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
2. Heat a large heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat until very hot. Add 1 tbsp (15 ml) niter kibbeh and swirl to coat.
3. Add half the beef in a single layer and sear without disturbing for 1–2 minutes until browned on the edges, then stir and sear another 30–60 seconds. Remove to a plate and repeat with remaining beef using the other 2 tbsp (30 ml) niter kibbeh as needed. Work quickly to keep strips tender.
4. Reduce heat to medium-high. Add the sliced onion and peppers to the pan and sauté in any fond for 3–4 minutes until beginning to soften. Add garlic and ginger and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
5. Return the seared beef to the pan, add the diced tomato, and toss to combine. Cook 1–2 minutes until the tomato warms and melds with the spices. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or berbere if desired.
6. Finish with 2 tbsp (30 ml) lemon juice or a spoonful of awaze for brightness. Garnish with chopped parsley or korarima leaves and serve immediately with injera or flatbread.
