Kitfo is an Ethiopian traditional dish that originated among the Gurage people.
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How it works, in terms someone would actually use
It uses minced raw beef marinated in mitmita (a chili-based spice powder) and niter kibbeh (a clarified butter infused with herbs and spices).
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What it gets right
Though not considered a delicacy, kitfo is generally held in high regard.
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What it does not
The raw beef filling makes it unsuitable for those avoiding raw meat.
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What it changed
It is served on special occasions such as Meskel, the 27 September holiday celebrating the Finding of the True Cross.
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Who it is for, and who it is not
It is for people who eat raw beef and enjoy spicy, richly seasoned dishes.
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Is it worth your time
It is worth your time if you seek a culturally significant Ethiopian dish with bold seasoning and traditional accompaniments.
Worth your time?
Selectively. Start with the brief, then cook the parts we point at.
What works
Though not considered a delicacy, kitfo is generally held in high regard.
What does not
The raw beef filling makes it unsuitable for those avoiding raw meat.
Cook it if
Skip it if
The written brief1 min read
What the dish is and where it came from
Kitfo is an Ethiopian traditional dish that originated among the Gurage people.
How it works, in terms someone would actually use
It uses minced raw beef marinated in mitmita (a chili-based spice powder) and niter kibbeh (a clarified butter infused with herbs and spices). A lightly cooked version is called kitfo leb leb.
What it gets right
Though not considered a delicacy, kitfo is generally held in high regard.
What it does not
The raw beef filling makes it unsuitable for those avoiding raw meat.
What it changed
It is served on special occasions such as Meskel, the 27 September holiday celebrating the Finding of the True Cross.
Who it is for, and who it is not
It is for people who eat raw beef and enjoy spicy, richly seasoned dishes. It is not for those avoiding raw meat, dairy (niter kibbeh, ayibe), or gluten-free grains (injera contains teff, kocho ensete).
Is it worth your time
It is worth your time if you seek a culturally significant Ethiopian dish with bold seasoning and traditional accompaniments.