Zigni is a traditional Ethiopian dish made with tender pieces of beef or lamb slow-cooked in a spicy berbere sauce. The meat becomes incredibly flavorful and falls off the bone, making it a popular choice for special occasions and gatherings. The aromatic blend of spices in the berbere sauce, such as chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and coriander, gives the dish its distinct heat and depth of flavor. Zigni is typically served with injera, a sourdough flatbread that is used to scoop up the meat and sauce.
Recipe for Ethiopian Zigni:
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef or lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 3 tablespoons berbere spice mix (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups beef broth or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
3. Stir in the berbere spice mix and cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
4. Add the beef or lamb to the skillet and toss it with the spice mixture until evenly coated. Cook for 2-3 minutes, browning the meat on all sides.
5. Pour in the beef broth or water, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily. Stir occasionally.
6. Season the zigni with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
7. Serve the zigni hot with injera for scooping up the delicious spicy meat and sauce. Enjoy your Ethiopian feast!
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Image model: KatayamaMixXL
