Kitfo is a minced raw beef dish that incorporates niter kibbeh and a spice blend (mitmita). | |
Alternative names | Niter qibe |
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Type | Seasoned, clarified butter |
Region or state | Eritrea and Ethiopia |
Main ingredients | Butter |
Ingredients generally used | Spices |
Niter kibbeh, or niter qibe (Amharic: ንጥር ቅቤ niṭer ḳibē), also called tesmi (in Tigrinya), is a seasoned, clarified butter used in Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine. Its preparation is similar to that of ghee, but niter kibbeh is simmered with spices such as besobela (known as Ethiopian sacred basil), koseret,[1][2] fenugreek, cumin, coriander, turmeric, Ethiopian cardamom (korarima),[3] cinnamon, or nutmeg before straining, imparting a distinct, spicy aroma. The version using vegetable oil instead of butter is called yeqimem zeyet.[4]