Awaze Tibs is a traditional Ethiopian dish that brings together tender beef cubes sautéed in a spicy and aromatic berbere sauce. This flavorful stir-fry is a staple in Ethiopian cuisine, often enjoyed with injera a sourdough flatbread that perfectly complements the dish’s robust flavors. The beauty of Awaze Tibs lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. The combination of niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter) and the unique berbere spice blend creates a rich and complex taste experience. Whether you’re new to Ethiopian cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, this dish offers a delightful culinary journey that’s both easy to prepare and immensely satisfying.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons niter kibbeh (Ethiopian clarified butter)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 jalapeño peppers, sliced
- 2 tablespoons berbere spice blend
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over high heat. Add the beef cubes, season with salt and black pepper, and sauté until browned on all sides. Remove beef and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt niter kibbeh over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in sliced jalapeño peppers, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add berbere spice blend, ground cumin, and ground ginger to the skillet; mix well to combine.
- Return browned beef to the skillet, ensuring it is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Pour in lemon juice, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
What is Awaze Tibs?
Awaze Tibs is a traditional Ethiopian dish made by stir-frying bite-sized beef cubes with berbere spice and niter kibbeh (spiced clarified butter). This dish is known for its fiery kick, thanks to the berbere seasoning, which is a blend of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, fenugreek, and other warming spices. It is often served with injera, a soft and spongy sourdough flatbread made from teff flour, which perfectly complements the bold flavors of the beef.
The word “Tibs” refers to the Ethiopian style of sautéing or stir-frying meat, and “Awaze” is a spicy sauce or marinade made using berbere spice mixed with water or honey wine (tej). The result is an intensely flavorful beef dish with a rich sauce that coats each piece of meat, making every bite a delight.
The History and Significance of Tibs in Ethiopian Cuisine
Tibs is a significant dish in Ethiopian culture and cuisine, often prepared for special occasions and gatherings. Traditionally, Tibs was served as a sign of respect or to honor guests. While there are different variations of Tibs, such as Shekla Tibs (served on a hot clay dish) or Derek Tibs (a drier version), Awaze Tibs stands out because of its spicy, sauce-infused preparation.
The use of berbere spice in Awaze Tibs is a hallmark of Ethiopian cooking. Berbere is a staple seasoning that gives many Ethiopian dishes their signature fiery heat and deep red color. The incorporation of niter kibbeh, a clarified butter infused with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and coriander, adds an additional layer of richness and complexity to the dish.
Why You Should Try Awaze Tibs
1. Rich and Bold Flavors
Awaze Tibs is a dish that delivers a powerful punch of flavor. The combination of berbere spice, sautéed onions, garlic, and jalapeño peppers creates a dish that is deeply aromatic, spicy, and slightly smoky. Every bite is packed with a mix of heat, umami, and citrusy brightness from the fresh lemon juice used to finish the dish.
2. Quick and Easy to Prepare
Despite its complex flavor profile, Awaze Tibs is surprisingly easy to cook. The entire dish can be made in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option for those who love bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
3. Versatile Serving Options
While Awaze Tibs is traditionally served with injera, it can also be enjoyed with rice, flatbreads, or even roasted vegetables. It can be paired with a cooling side dish like Ayib (Ethiopian cottage cheese) or a fresh salad to balance out the heat.
4. High in Protein and Nutrients
This dish is packed with lean protein from beef and contains healthy fats from niter kibbeh. The berbere spice blend also includes antioxidant-rich ingredients like garlic, ginger, and chili peppers, which contribute to anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Tips for Making the Best Awaze Tibs
- Use High-Quality Beef: The best cuts for this dish include sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye. These cuts cook quickly and remain tender and juicy.
- Don’t Skip the Niter Kibbeh: This Ethiopian spiced butter enhances the dish’s richness. If unavailable, you can substitute with ghee or butter, but the traditional flavor comes from niter kibbeh.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of berbere spice or mix it with honey or yogurt to balance the heat.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For even deeper flavor, let the beef marinate in Awaze sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Pair it Well: Serve Awaze Tibs with traditional Ethiopian sides like injera, lentil stew (Misir Wot), or collard greens (Gomen) for a full Ethiopian meal experience.
Common Variations of Tibs
Although Awaze Tibs is one of the spicier versions of Tibs, there are many other variations of this dish, including:
- Shekla Tibs – Served in a sizzling hot clay dish for extra smokiness.
- Derek Tibs – A drier version of Tibs without the Awaze sauce.
- Tibs Fitfit – A variation where pieces of injera are mixed into the dish to soak up the spicy sauce.
- Lega Tibs – A milder, less spicy version that is lightly seasoned.
Conclusion:
Awaze Tibs is a true celebration of Ethiopian flavors, combining heat, aroma, and depth of taste in a quick and easy stir-fry. Whether you’re new to Ethiopian cuisine or a long-time fan, this dish is a must-try for those who enjoy spicy and savory meals. The rich taste of berbere spice, niter kibbeh, and seared beef creates an unforgettable culinary experience that pairs beautifully with traditional Ethiopian sides.
Next time you’re in the mood for something bold and flavorful, give Awaze Tibs a try. Your taste buds will thank you!