Name: Awaze Tibs: Ethiopian Spiced Beef Stir-Fry with Berbere Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Ethiopian
Ingredients: 3 Tbsp berbere spice blend; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 3 Tbsp water; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 2 pounds ribeye steak, cut into thinly sliced bites; 1 medium red onion, sliced; 4 large garlic cloves, sliced; 2 medium tomatoes, sliced with most seeds removed; 1 jalapeño or serrano, sliced; 1 sprig rosemary; Salt, to taste; 2 Tbsp niter kebbeh, ghee or clarified butter; Injera or rice for serving

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If you love vibrant, bold flavors that dance on your palate, then you are absolutely going to adore this Awaze Tibs: Ethiopian Spiced Beef Stir-Fry with Berbere Sauce Recipe. This dish is a celebration of Ethiopian culinary magic where tender, juicy beef meets the fiery warmth of berbere spice, complemented by a luscious berbere sauce that elevates every bite. It’s comforting, deeply flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make—perfect for bringing a touch of Ethiopian sunshine right into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up top view of a black cast iron skillet filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is cooked, thinly sliced brown beef strips mixed with thin slices of purple and white onion, creating a textured, slightly glossy base; on top, there is a pile of bright red tomato wedges and strips that add a fresh and juicy contrast in the center of the pan. The skillet rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is your first step toward the incredible flavors of Awaze Tibs. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding depth, heat, or freshness that makes this dish truly unforgettable.

Berbere spice blend: This signature Ethiopian spice mix is what gives the dish its vibrant, complex heat and color.
Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that balance the rich spices and highlight the beef’s natural flavor.
Olive oil and niter kebbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter): These fats help sear the beef perfectly while adding subtle layers of richness.
Ribeye steak: Well-marbled cuts like ribeye ensure tender, juicy bites ideal for stir-frying.
Red onion and garlic: Aromatics that build the savory backbone of the dish with sweetness and pungency.
Tomatoes: Provide a gentle acidity and freshness that soften the fiery spices.
Jalapeño or serrano pepper: Adds a spicy kick to brighten up the entire dish.
Fresh rosemary: A hint of woody, fragrant herbaceousness that pairs beautifully with beef.

How to Make Awaze Tibs: Ethiopian Spiced Beef Stir-Fry with Berbere Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Awaze Sauce

Mix together your berbere spice blend with salt, black pepper, olive oil, and water in a small bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish, packing intense flavor that will infuse every piece of beef. Once whisked, set it aside so the flavors can blend while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Season your thinly sliced ribeye with salt, then heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or cast iron skillet over high heat. Sear the beef slices quickly, about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally so they brown beautifully without steaming. This step locks in all the meaty juices making every bite tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add sliced red onion and garlic to the pan with the beef. Sauté together for 4 to 5 minutes until the onions start to soften and release their sweetness, mingling perfectly with the garlicky undertones—this layering is what gives Awaze Tibs its sensational depth.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Awaze Sauce

Now it’s time to add those fresh tomato slices and your prepared Awaze sauce. Stir gently and thoroughly to coat every piece of beef and onion in the vibrant spice mix and juicy tomato base. The sauce will begin to thicken slightly as it cooks, binding the flavors into one irresistible dish.

Step 5: Finish with Peppers, Herbs, and Butter

Pour in a little water along with the sliced jalapeño and fresh rosemary sprig, then cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the tomatoes are just starting to wilt but still maintain some texture. To finish, stir in the luxurious niter kebbeh or ghee, which adds a nutty, buttery richness that lifts the entire dish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately with injera or rice.

How to Serve Awaze Tibs: Ethiopian Spiced Beef Stir-Fry with Berbere Sauce Recipe

A black skillet filled with a rich stew showing three layers: the bottom layer has a thick reddish-brown sauce; the middle layer has large strips of brown cooked meat with visible texture and sprigs of green rosemary; the top layer includes bright red bell pepper slices, green chili pieces, sliced caramelized onions, and chunks of cooked garlic, all soaked in the glossy sauce, sitting on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a bright contrast that cuts through the richness. Some like a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice to add a citrusy zing that complements the warm spices. Thinly sliced fresh chili peppers can add extra heat if that’s your style.

Side Dishes

Traditionally served with injera, the Ethiopian sourdough flatbread, this dish also pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice or even creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all the saucy goodness. A fresh salad with cucumber and tomato is a crisp counterpoint that balances the richness of the beef.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve Awaze Tibs family-style on a large platter surrounded by torn pieces of injera for communal eating—perfect for sharing with friends and family. Alternatively, spoon your tibs over a bed of fragrant quinoa or couscous for a modern twist. You can also stuff the mixture inside warm pita pockets for a hand-held delight that’s bursting with Ethiopian flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for up to four days. The flavors often mellow and deepen overnight, making your next meal just as enjoyable.

Freezing

Awaze Tibs freezes wonderfully—simply transfer to a sealed container and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the tender texture and vibrant seasoning.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally so it warms evenly without drying out. A splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Microwave reheating is fine too; just cover and heat in short intervals to avoid overcooking the beef.

FAQs

What is berbere spice blend?

Berbere is a traditional Ethiopian spice mix made from chili peppers, garlic, ginger, coriander, and several other spices. It’s bold, fragrant, and forms the backbone of many Ethiopian dishes, including Awaze Tibs.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While ribeye is preferred for its tenderness and marbling, New York strip, sirloin, or even lamb work beautifully in this recipe. Just slice thinly for quick, even cooking.

Is Awaze sauce very spicy?

Awaze sauce brings a warm heat from the berbere spice and jalapeño, but it’s customizable. If you prefer milder dishes, reduce the berbere and omit the fresh chili. You can always add more spice after tasting.

What can I serve instead of injera?

While injera is traditional, rice, flatbreads, or even quinoa are excellent alternatives that soak up the sauce nicely and maintain the spirit of the meal.

Can I make Awaze Tibs vegetarian?

To recreate the flavors without beef, try substituting mushrooms or firm tofu for the protein, using the berbere sauce to maintain that signature Ethiopian flavor.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Awaze Tibs: Ethiopian Spiced Beef Stir-Fry with Berbere Sauce Recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that brings warmth and excitement to any meal. The combination of robust spices, tender beef, and the fragrant sauce is truly something special. Whether you’re new to Ethiopian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe will quickly become a favorite to share with loved ones. Happy cooking!