Authentic Ethiopian Kitfo: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

1 pound of lean ground beef
2 tablespoons of Mitmita (Ethiopian chili powder)
1 tablespoon of Niter Kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced butter)
1/2 teaspoon of cardamom powder
2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh collard greens
Salt to taste
Injera (Ethiopian flat bread) for serving
Ayib (Ethiopian cheese) for serving

Steps and instructions

Place the ground beef in a dish and freeze it for approximately 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
While the beef is in the freezer, prepare the Niter Kibbeh if you do not have it ready. Melt the butter slowly without burning, then add the other ingredients (such as ginger, garlic, and several kinds of spices). Let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, then strain it and let it cool down.
Take the beef out of the freezer and chop it finely with a sharp knife. You can also use a food processor, but make sure not to over process and turn the beef into a paste.
Add the Mitmita, cardamom, and Niter Kibbeh to the beef and mix it well.
Season with salt to taste.
In a separate pan, sauté the chopped collard greens until they are tender.
Serve the Kitfo with the sautéed collard greens, Injera, and Ayib.
The dish is traditionally served raw, but if you prefer, you can slightly heat the mixture over low heat until it’s just warm. Make sure not to cook it, as the flavor and texture will significantly change.

Tools for making

Sharp knife - Needed to finely chop the beef.
Food processor (optional) - Can be used instead of a knife to finely chop the beef.
Pan - Used to sauté the collard greens.
Dish - Used to freeze the ground beef.
Strainer - Used to strain the Niter Kibbeh after simmering.

Recipe variations

Vegetarian/Vegan Variation: Substitute the ground beef with finely chopped mushrooms or a mixture of tofu and lentils.
Spicy Variation: Increase the amount of Mitmita or add other hot peppers for a spicier flavor profile.
Herb Variation: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a burst of freshness to the dish.
Cheese Variation: Instead of Ayib, use crumbled feta cheese or grated Parmesan for a different twist.
Raw Variation: Stick to the traditional method and serve the Kitfo completely raw without heating it.
Wraps Variation: Instead of Injera, use lettuce leaves or tortilla wraps as a base for wrapping the Kitfo.
Grilled Variation: Form the seasoned ground beef into patties and grill them for a smoky flavor.
Spicy Butter Variation: Experiment with different types of spiced butter, such as Berbere-infused butter, for a unique flavor.

Recipe overview

Kitfo is a traditional Ethiopian dish that is both unique and full of flavor. This delicacy is made from lean ground beef, seasoned with a blend of Ethiopian spices including Mitmita and Niter Kibbeh. The Kitfo is often served raw, which may be new to some, but can be slightly heated if preferred. Accompanied by Injera (Ethiopian flat bread), Ayib (a type of cottage cheese), and some sautéed collard greens, Kitfo is a satisfying and flavorful meal that represents the rich culinary culture of Ethiopia. Whether you're an adventurous foodie or a fan of Ethiopian cuisine, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef? Yes, you can use other meats such as lamb or goat to make Kitfo. However, traditionally it is made with lean ground beef.
Where can I find Mitmita and Niter Kibbeh if I don't have them? You can find Mitmita and Niter Kibbeh at Ethiopian grocery stores or specialty spice shops. If you can't find them, you can try making your own at home using a combination of spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, ginger, garlic, and clarified butter.
Is it safe to eat Kitfo raw? Traditionally, Kitfo is served raw. However, if you are concerned about consuming raw meat, you can lightly cook the mixture over low heat until it's just warm. Avoid overcooking to preserve the desired texture and flavor.
What can I serve Kitfo with? Kitfo is commonly served with Injera, an Ethiopian flatbread made from fermented teff flour. You can also serve it with Ayib, a fresh Ethiopian cheese, and sautéed collard greens.
Can I adjust the spiciness of Kitfo? Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of Kitfo by increasing or decreasing the amount of Mitmita used. Start with the recommended amount and adjust according to your taste preferences.

Serving dishes and utensils

Knife - A sharp knife is essential for finely chopping the beef and other ingredients.
Cutting Board - A sturdy cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the ingredients.
Food Processor (optional) - If you prefer, a food processor can be used to finely chop the beef.
Pan - A pan is needed to sauté the collard greens.
Spatula - A spatula or wooden spoon is useful for stirring and sautéing the collard greens.
Dish or Bowl - A dish or bowl is needed to serve the Kitfo.

Origin stories

Kitfo, a staple in Ethiopian cuisine, is often associated with special occasions due to its rich ingredients. The dish's name derives from the Ethio-Semitic root "k-t-f", meaning "to chop finely; mince" which aptly describes the method of preparation. While traditionally, Kitfo is served raw, much like steak tartare, it can also be served "leb leb" (lightly cooked) to accommodate different palates. The inclusion of injera, a sourdough flatbread, and Ayib, a homemade cheese, provides a delightful contrast to the spicy beef. Interestingly, Kitfo is also a favorite dish during the Ethiopian fasting period, where it's prepared without any animal products, showcasing the versatility of this celebrated dish in Ethiopian culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.