Spicy Ethiopian-Inspired Beef Tibs with Onions and Peppers

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-27 · Updated 2026-04-27

Sautéed cubes of beef tossed with caramelized onions, colorful bell peppers, and a punch of Ethiopian-inspired spices for a bold, flavorful stir-fry. This ethiopian-inspired beef ready in about 35 minutes pairs beef sirloin, vegetable oil, red bell pepper for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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.

Ingredients

• 1 lb, cut into 1-inch cubes beef sirloin
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large, sliced into strips red bell pepper
• 1 large, sliced into strips green bell pepper
• 1 large, thinly sliced yellow onion
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp berbere spice mix
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp, chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb beef sirloin cubes and sear for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove beef and set aside.
2. Step 2: In the same skillet, add 1 large thinly sliced yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft and golden. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add 1 large red bell pepper and 1 large green bell pepper, sliced into strips, and cook for 3 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Step 4: Stir in 1 tbsp berbere spice mix and 1 tbsp tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to blend flavors. Return beef to skillet and add 1/4 cup water, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
5. Step 5: Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is cooked through and sauce thickens. Remove from heat and garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro before serving.