Ethiopian Kuanta Firfir: A Delicious Meat-Lover’s Delight

In a previous blog post, I shared a recipe for Yesom Firfir, a vegan version of the popular Ethiopian dish. But today, I want to cater to the meat lovers out there and introduce you to Ethiopian Kuanta Firfir. 

Firfir is a versatile meal that can be customized to suit your taste and preferences. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover wot (stew) you may have. Simply cut your injera (Ethiopian flatbread) into small pieces and make a flavorful Firfir that will save the day.

One of my favorite variations of Firfir is made with Doro wot, a traditional Ethiopian chicken stew. This dish is especially popular the day after a holiday when families gather to enjoy the leftover Doro wot. Stay tuned, as I will definitely share a blog post dedicated to Doro Firfir soon.

Now, let’s dive into the recipe for Ethiopian Kuanta Firfir. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 onion
• 1/3 cup of avocado oil (you can use your choice of cooking oil)
• 2 medium tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and ginger
• 2 and ½ tbs berbere 
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of organic tomato paste (optional, but adds a nice flavor)
• 1 teaspoon of cardamom
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of rosemary
• 1 cup of beef jerky
• 1 jalapeno (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Start by finely chopping the onion and tomatoes.

2. Heat the avocado oil in a pan over medium heat.

3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent.

4. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for an additional minute. Add the Berbere spice to the oil and stir well to infuse the flavors.

5. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they start to break down and release their juices.

6. Stir in the tomato paste, cardamom, black pepper, and rosemary. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

7. Cut the beef jerky into small pieces and add it to the pan. Stir to coat the jerky with the tomato mixture.

8. Reduce the heat to low and let the Firfir simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

9. While the Firfir is simmering, you can slice the jalapeño for garnish if desired.

10. Serve the Ethiopian Kuanta Firfir warm, garnished with sliced jalapeño if desired.

This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a weekend breakfast, especially when paired with a cup of tea. The combination of tender beef jerky, aromatic spices, and the tanginess of the tomatoes creates a truly satisfying meal.

So, if you’re a meat lover looking to explore the diverse and delicious cuisine of Ethiopia, give Ethiopian Kuanta Firfir a try. It’s a dish that celebrates the rich flavors and traditions of Ethiopian cooking. Stay tuned for more exciting recipes and culinary adventures!

(Note: If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, feel free to customize the recipe accordingly. Ethiopian cuisine is known for its adaptability, so don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own.)