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Kitfo Leb Leb
EthiopianMedium

Kitfo Leb Leb

A slightly cooked version of the classic kitfo for those who prefer the meat seared.

Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

10 min

Servings

5

Ingredients

  • 1 lb high-quality lean beef (top round or sirloin)
  • 4 tbsp Niter Kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter)
  • 1.5 tbsp Mitmita (spicy chili powder blend)
  • 0.5 tsp Korerima (black cardamom powder)
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 1 cup Ayib (Ethiopian cottage cheese)(optional)
  • 1 cup Gomen (collard greens)(optional)
  • 4 pieces Injera (flatbread)
  • 1 pinch Koseret (dried herb)(optional)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Finely mince the beef by hand using a sharp knife until it reaches a very soft, ground texture, removing any gristle or fat.

  2. 2

    Place a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over low heat to gently warm up.

  3. 3

    Add the Niter Kibbeh to the pan and allow it to melt completely without browning or bubbling too vigorously.

  4. 4

    Stir the Mitmita, Korerima, salt, and Koseret into the melted butter to release the aromatics.

  5. 5

    Add the minced beef to the pan and stir constantly with a wooden spoon to incorporate the spiced butter.

  6. 6

    Cook the meat for only 2 to 3 minutes; the goal of Leb Leb is to just warm the meat through until it turns slightly greyish-pink while remaining very tender.

  7. 7

    Immediately remove the pan from the heat to prevent the meat from overcooking and becoming tough.

  8. 8

    Serve immediately on a platter lined with Injera, accompanied by Ayib and Gomen on the side.

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