Kitfo-Style Spiced Raw Beef Tartare with Mitmita and Niter Kibbeh

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A traditional Ethiopian dish of finely chopped raw beef seasoned with spicy mitmita chili powder and melted niter kibbeh butter, served chilled. This ethiopian-inspired beef ready in about 15 minutes layers lean beef tenderloin, finely chopped, mitmita spice blend, salt into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 360 calories and feeds 4, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Serves 4 Ethiopian cuisine 360 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Place 1 pound finely chopped lean beef tenderloin in a chilled bowl. Add 3 tablespoons melted niter kibbeh, stirring to coat the meat evenly, infusing it with rich buttery flavor.
  2. Step 2: Mix in 1 tablespoon mitmita spice blend, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Stir gently until all spices are fully incorporated.
  3. Step 3: Fold in 1 tablespoon freshly chopped basil to add a fresh herbal note.
  4. Step 4: Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes to let flavors meld and chill slightly.
  5. Step 5: Serve the kitfo chilled alongside injera or your preferred flatbread, inviting diners to scoop and enjoy the vibrant, spicy raw beef.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Kitfo-Style Spiced Raw Beef Tartare with Mitmita and Niter Kibbeh take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Kitfo-Style Spiced Raw Beef Tartare with Mitmita and Niter Kibbeh?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Kitfo-Style Spiced Raw Beef Tartare with Mitmita and Niter Kibbeh?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Kitfo-Style Spiced Raw Beef Tartare with Mitmita and Niter Kibbeh for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Kitfo-Style Spiced Raw Beef Tartare with Mitmita and Niter Kibbeh?

Ethiopian beef like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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