Aug 27 2026

Zilzil Tibs Recipe

Time40m
Serves3

Make Zilzil Tibs Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Beef and Marinade

Method

Beef and Marinade

  1. 1

    Prepare beef

    Trim excess fat from the beef and cut into 1/2-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a bowl and toss with lemon juice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.

Spice mix and aromatics

  1. 2

    Melt niter kibbeh

    In a large heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat, add the niter kibbeh (or unsalted butter). Warm until melted and fragrant, about 1–2 minutes.

  2. 3

    Sear beef

    Increase heat to medium-high. Add the beef cubes in a single layer (work in two batches if necessary to avoid crowding). Sear without moving for 1–2 minutes to develop a brown crust, then stir and continue to cook until browned on most sides but still slightly pink inside, about 3–4 minutes total per batch. Remove seared beef to a plate and keep warm.

  3. 4

    Cook aromatics

    Reduce heat to medium. Add a little more niter kibbeh if the pan is dry. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to caramelize, about 6–8 minutes. Add minced garlic and ginger; cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

  4. 5

    Add spices

    Stir in berbere and mitmita (if using). Cook the spices for 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly, to bloom their flavors and coat the aromatics.

Vegetables & finishing

  1. 6

    Add vegetables

    Add the green bell pepper strips, sliced green chili, and diced tomato to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pepper softens but keeps some bite and the tomato breaks down slightly, about 3–5 minutes.

  2. 7

    Return beef and finish

    Return the seared beef and any accumulated juices to the pan. Toss gently to combine and cook together for 1–2 minutes so the beef finishes cooking and absorbs the spice/vegetable mixture. If using, add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme and stir once.

  3. 8

    Adjust seasoning & serve

    Taste and adjust salt and heat as needed. Remove from heat. Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley if using and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Traditional serving suggestions: serve with injera or rice; squeeze lemon over the top just before eating.

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