Yetsom Tibs Recipe

Cook Time: 36 minutes  

   Prep Time: 15 minutes

Yetsom Tibs Ingredients

Yetsom Tibs Instructions

  1. Press the tofu for at least 20 minutes to remove excess moisture, then cut it into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Thinly slice the red onion. Mince the garlic and ginger. Dice the tomatoes. Slice the jalapeño peppers, removing seeds if you prefer less heat. Slice the red and green bell peppers. Chop the cilantro and set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of niter kibbeh in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced red onion and cook, stirring frequently, for 6-8 minutes until the onions are soft and beginning to caramelize.
  4. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle in the berbere spice blend, ground turmeric, ground cumin, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  6. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes begin to break down and form a sauce.
  7. Add the sliced jalapeños, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes until the peppers start to soften.
  8. Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of niter kibbeh. Add the tofu cubes and let them brown lightly on a couple of sides, about 3-4 minutes.
  9. Mix the tofu with the vegetables. Add the salt and 1/4 cup water. Stir well to combine everything.
  10. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash more water if the mixture looks too dry.
  11. Uncover and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt or spices as needed. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish and stir in the chopped cilantro.
  12. Serve hot, ideally with injera or rice.

Estimated Calories: 220, Servings: 4

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Yetsom Tibs Tips

When I first tried making a homemade Yetsom Tibs recipe, I was amazed at how easy and quick it was to whip up such a delicious and authentic dish. The best part is that you don't need any fancy equipment-just a good pan and a little patience. For the perfect Yetsom Tibs, I always make sure to prep all my ingredients ahead of time. This simple step keeps everything moving smoothly and helps lock in those tasty flavors.
One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to let the vegetables get a little bit of char in the pan. That slight caramelization brings out a depth of flavor that makes the dish truly stand out. If you want your Yetsom Tibs to taste just like the best versions you've had at restaurants, don't rush this part! I also love experimenting with the spice level-sometimes I add a bit more berbere for an extra kick, or keep it mild for a more subtle, comforting taste.
For anyone wondering how to make this dish even more special, I recommend serving it with fresh injera or fluffy rice. The combination is simply irresistible. And if you're looking for a quick and easy meal, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The best Yetsom Tibs are always homemade, and with a few simple tips, you'll have a tasty, authentic meal that's sure to impress.

Yetsom Tibs Pairings

When I think about the best flavors to go with a meal like this, I always crave something that balances out the spices and brings a little brightness to the table. I remember the first time I tried a quick and easy tangy tomato salad with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It was so delicious and healthy, and it really cut through the richness of the main dish. I love how a good, fresh salad can make everything taste even better, and it is such a fast recipe to throw together when you are short on time.
For drinks, I have found that a nice, cool glass of honey wine, or tej, is a great pairing. The sweet and slightly floral notes of tej are a good match for the bold flavors, and it is surprisingly easy to make at home if you are up for a little kitchen experiment. If you want something non-alcoholic, a quick ginger tea with a touch of honey is also a delicious and healthy option. Both drinks are perfect for sipping slowly and really enjoying the meal, and they make the whole experience feel a bit more special.
Sides are where you can really have some fun. I always go for a big basket of injera, which is the best way to scoop up every last bite. But if you want to try something different, a fast and easy lentil stew or a good, simple sautéed greens recipe can be a great addition. These sides are not just delicious, they are also healthy and filling, making the whole meal feel complete. I love how quick it is to put together a few sides, and it always impresses friends when I serve a little variety on the table.

About Yetsom Tibs Recipe

Yetsom Tibs is truly one of the best vegetarian dishes you can experience from Ethiopian cuisine. This authentic recipe is a celebration of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it both a delicious and healthy choice for any meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity-using fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and a few easy techniques, you can create a homemade masterpiece that's both quick and satisfying. If you're searching for the perfect way to enjoy a meatless meal, learning how to make Yetsom Tibs is a must. The combination of sautéed vegetables and bold seasonings results in a tasty, mouthwatering plate that's sure to impress.
When preparing this easy recipe, the key is to use the best ingredients you can find. Fresh onions, tomatoes, peppers, and carrots form the base, while traditional Ethiopian spices like berbere add depth and warmth. My top tips for achieving the most authentic and delicious Yetsom Tibs are to cook the vegetables just until tender, allowing their natural flavors to shine, and to balance the spices for a harmonious taste. This simple yet flavorful approach ensures that every bite is bursting with the perfect blend of textures and aromas. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, this recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
If you're wondering how to make the best Yetsom Tibs at home, start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them ahead of time. This will make the cooking process even easier and more enjoyable. Don't be afraid to adjust the spice level to suit your taste-one of the joys of homemade Ethiopian dishes is making them your own. Serve your Yetsom Tibs with injera or rice for a truly authentic experience. With these tips and a focus on quality ingredients, you'll have a tasty, easy, and perfect dish that captures the essence of Ethiopian cuisine every time.

Yetsom Tibs Quick Mistake Fixes

One time, I got a little too enthusiastic with the salt shaker, and wow, did it throw off the whole vibe of the meal. It's easy to think a bit more salt will make things pop, but with this dish, too much can really overpower those great, earthy flavors. I've found the best way to fix it, if I catch it early, is to toss in a few extra veggies or even a splash of water to mellow things out. It's a good reminder that a light hand with seasoning can make a dish taste healthy and delicious, rather than just salty.
There was a day when I got distracted and left the pan on the stove a bit too long, and everything ended up overcooked. The veggies lost their color and texture, and the whole thing just looked sad. It's funny how a quick, easy dish can turn into a bit of a mess if you're not paying attention. The best tip I've picked up is to keep everything moving in the pan and to trust your instincts-if it smells great and looks vibrant, it's probably done. That way, you get a fast, delicious meal that still looks as good as it tastes.
Sometimes, I taste the dish right before serving and realize it's just missing something. It's not bland, exactly, but it needs a little lift. That's when I start thinking about balancing flavors with last minute changes. A squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can make a world of difference, turning a good meal into a great one. It's easy to forget how much those quick, final touches can elevate a recipe and make it feel special, even if you're just cooking for yourself.

Yetsom Tibs Story

I remember the first time I moved away from home, everything felt so unfamiliar and overwhelming. The city was loud, the people were strangers, and even the air seemed different. One evening, after a particularly tough day, I stumbled upon a small restaurant tucked away on a quiet street. The moment I walked in, the aroma instantly brought me back to my childhood kitchen. It was like a warm hug from my past, and I could not help but smile. That night, I realized that sometimes the best comfort comes from the most unexpected places.
As I sat there, I thought about how my mom always had a knack for making even the most complicated recipe seem easy. She would laugh and say, "If you cook with love, it will always turn out delicious." That memory made me feel so much closer to her, even though we were miles apart. The food was not just good, it was great, and it filled me with a sense of belonging I had been missing. It was amazing how something so simple could make me feel so healthy and whole again.
After that night, whenever I felt homesick or lost, I would go back to that little spot. It became my quick escape, a fast way to reconnect with my roots and recharge my spirit. I even started trying to recreate the dish at home, searching for the best way to capture that same feeling. It was never quite the same, but the act of cooking it made everything feel a little brighter. In those moments, I realized that home is not just a place, but a feeling you can carry with you, especially when you have the right flavors to remind you.