Niter Kibbeh (Ethiopian Spiced Clarified Butter)
User Reviews
4.9
Niter Kibbeh (Ethiopian Spiced Clarified Butter)
Description
This Niter Kibbeh recipe starts with unsalted butter melted over low heat along with a carefully chosen combination of whole and ground spices including cinnamon, black peppercorns, black cardamom pods, cloves, fenugreek, coriander seeds, oregano, kalonji (or cumin/nigella seeds), nutmeg, and turmeric. The mixture simmers gently for about 45 minutes, allowing the butter to clarify and absorb the aromatic spices.
Once cooked, the butter is strained multiple times to remove solids, resulting in a clear, golden spiced clarified butter that carries the warm, earthy, and subtle pungent notes of the spices. The final product is cooled before storage and can be refrigerated for up to two months, enhancing dishes with a distinct Ethiopian flavor profile.
Niter kibbeh can be used in cooking or finishing to add richness and spice depth, particularly in stews or vegetable dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound butter cubed, unsalted
- ¼ cup yellow onion chopped
- 3 tbsps garlic minced, fresh
- 2 tbsps ginger minced, fresh
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp black peppercorns whole
- 3 black cardamom pods not the green cardamom variety
- 3 clove whole
- 1 tsp fenugreek seeds
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp oregano dried
- ½ tsp kalonji or cumin seeds or nigella seeds
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp Turmeric ground
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan over low heat.
- Allow to cook for 45 minutes. Remove from the stove. Sift the butter through a sieve to remove any larger pieces. Strain as many times as necessary until the butter is completely clear and devoid of residue.
- Allow the butter to cool somewhat before placing in a jar or container. Store in the refrigerator for 2 months, away from heat and sunlight.
Notes
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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