Authentic Ethiopian Timatim Fit-Fit Recipe

Ingredients

4 ripe tomatoes
1 large red onion
1 jalapeño pepper
2 cloves of garlic
1 tablespoon of berbere spice
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 injera breads
1 lime
Fresh cilantro for garnishing

Steps and instructions

First, finely chop the tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño pepper. Mince the garlic.
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño to the pan. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
Next, add the tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes are well softened and have released their juices.
Add the berbere spice and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine everything.
Tear the injera into small, bite-sized pieces. Add these pieces to the pan and stir well to ensure they are fully coated with the tomato mixture.
Cook for a few more minutes, until the injera has absorbed the flavors and becomes slightly crispy.
Squeeze the lime over the fit-fit, then remove the pan from the heat.
Garnish the fit-fit with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tools for making

Cutting board - For chopping the tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño pepper.
Knife - To finely chop the ingredients and mince the garlic.
Large pan - To cook the tomato mixture and mix it with the injera.
Stirring spoon - For stirring the ingredients in the pan.
Spatula - To help mix and flip the injera while cooking.
Lime squeezer - To extract the juice from the lime.
Garnishing tool - For sprinkling fresh cilantro on top of the fit-fit.

Recipe variations

Use whole wheat injera instead of regular injera for a healthier option.
Add cooked chicken or beef to make it a meaty fit-fit.
Include some chopped bell peppers or carrots for added crunch and flavor.
Replace the berbere spice with a different Ethiopian spice blend, such as mitmita or awaze.
Add some crumbled feta cheese on top for a creamy and tangy twist.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread or substitute the injera with gluten-free flatbread.
Try using different types of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes, for a unique flavor profile.
Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
For a vegan option, omit the injera and serve the tomato mixture over quinoa or rice instead.

Recipe overview

Timatim Fit-fit is a popular traditional dish from Eritrea and Ethiopia. It is a vibrant and flavorful dish made using injera, a type of sourdough flatbread, and a spicy tomato salad. This dish is a delicious and hearty vegan meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day. It is packed full of flavors from the berbere spice, garlic, and jalapeño, and is finished off with a fresh squeeze of lime. Despite its complex flavors, Timatim Fit-fit is simple to prepare and does not require any special cooking skills. This recipe walks you through the process step by step and is perfect for anyone looking to explore East African cuisine.

Common questions

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if you don't have fresh ones available. However, fresh tomatoes will give the dish a more vibrant and fresh flavor.
Is berbere spice spicy?
Yes, berbere spice is known for its spiciness. If you prefer a milder version, you can adjust the amount of berbere spice according to your taste.
Can I substitute the injera bread with a different type of bread?
Injera bread is traditionally used for this recipe as it adds a unique flavor and texture. However, if you can't find injera, you can substitute it with other flatbreads like naan or pita bread.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it's best to enjoy Timatim Fit-fit fresh, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Keep in mind that the injera may lose some of its crispiness when reheated.
Can I adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper based on your preference for spiciness. Feel free to add more or less depending on how spicy you like your dishes.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting Board - A sturdy cutting surface to chop the vegetables.
Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and garlic.
Large Pan - A pan large enough to sauté the vegetables and mix the fit-fit.
Spatula - A spatula or spoon for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pan.
Citrus Juicer - A tool for easily juicing the lime over the fit-fit.
Garnishing Tool - A tool for sprinkling fresh cilantro over the fit-fit as a garnish.

Origin stories

Originating from the diverse culinary traditions of Ethiopia, Timatim Fit-fit is a beloved staple, as integral to the culture as the vibrant music and lively festivals. The key to its rich, tantalizing flavor is the berbere spice, a unique blend of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and other warming spices that's the heart of many Ethiopian dishes. The dish is typically served with injera, a sourdough-risen flatbread with a slightly spongy texture, which doubles as both a food item and an eating utensil in Ethiopian cuisine. The enchanting dance of flavors in every bite of Timatim Fit-fit embodies the spirit of Ethiopia - warm, vibrant, and inviting.

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.