How to Make Authentic Niter Kibbeh
Niter Kibbeh is a flavorful and fragrant clarified butter infused with aromatic spices. It's the non-negotiable ingredient that gives authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean cooking its unique flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound unsalted butter vegan alternative: use dairy-free butter
- 1 medium red onion roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic leave whole and smash with flat side of knife
- 2 inch piece of ginger peeled and chopped
- 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
- 1 teaspoon cardamom seeds
- 1 crushed cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 5 fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. As foam rises to the top, skim and discard it. Continue cooking, without letting the butter brown, until no more foam appears. Add remainder of ingredients and continue cooking for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from the heat and let stand until the spices settle. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve before using.
- Cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.