How to Make the Perfect Kitfo
Ethiopian · Easy · 20 min · 4 servings
Kitfo is a traditional Ethiopian dish made from raw or lightly warmed minced beef seasoned with mitmita spice and niter kibbeh. It is considered a delicacy and is often served at special occasions alongside ayib fresh cheese and gomen greens.
Why this recipe works
This Kitfo recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 20 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 410 calories with 35g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 500 g lean beef tenderloin finely minced
- 3 tbsp niter kibbeh spiced clarified butter
- 2 tsp mitmita spice blend
- 1 tsp korarima Ethiopian cardamom ground
- 0.5 tsp fine sea salt
- 100 g ayib fresh Ethiopian cottage cheese
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Ensure the beef tenderloin is very fresh and has been sourced from a trusted butcher. Trim all visible sinew and fat, then mince the meat as finely as possible using a sharp knife or a meat grinder set to a fine plate. Keep the meat cold throughout this process.
Step 2: Warm the Niter Kibbeh
In a small pan over the lowest possible heat, gently warm the niter kibbeh until it is just melted and fragrant. Do not allow it to bubble or smoke. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for 1 minute before using.
Step 3: Season and Combine
Place the minced beef in a mixing bowl and pour the warm niter kibbeh over it. Add the mitmita, korarima, and salt. Mix thoroughly with clean hands or a spoon until every bit of beef is coated with butter and spice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Serve Traditionally
For leb leb style, briefly warm the seasoned beef in a pan over low heat for no more than 2 minutes, stirring constantly so it does not cook through. Plate the kitfo alongside a mound of ayib and gomen if available. Serve immediately with injera on the side.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- mitmita spice blend → a pinch of cayenne pepper mixed with cardamom and clove
- ayib fresh cheese → ricotta cheese or finely crumbled dry cottage cheese
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using low quality or non-fresh beef which makes the dish unsafe and lacking in proper flavor
- Overheating the niter kibbeh until it browns which removes its delicate spiced aroma
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 410 calories, 35g protein, 4g carbs, 28g fat, 1g fiber.
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