Appetizer · Main Course · African ·

Ethiopian Coffee-Infused Beef Skewers with Berbere

Tender beef cubes infused with a robust blend of Ethiopian coffee and spices, skewered and grilled to perfection with a spicy and vibrant berbere seasoning.

4.5(166 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Ethiopian Coffee-Infused Beef Skewers with Berbere — Appetizer served and photographed from above
Prep
35 min
Cook
1 h 45 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Marinating the Beef

  1. 1

    Combine ingredients

    In a mixing bowl, combine the coffee, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, honey, salt, and black pepper.

  2. 2

    Marinate beef

    Place the beef cubes in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the meat.

  3. 3

    Refrigerate

    Seal the bag, ensuring the beef is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

    Tip: For best results, marinate the beef overnight to enhance the flavors.

Preparing the Skewers

  1. 1

    Preheat grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

  2. 2

    Dry beef

    Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.

  3. 3

    Season beef

    Toss the beef cubes with berbere spice mix until evenly coated.

    Tip: Ensure skewers are fully soaked to prevent burning. Alternate beef with onions and peppers for even cooking and flavor balance.

How to Make Ethiopian Coffee-Infused Beef Skewers with Berbere

Total time: 2 h 20 min · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Grilling the Skewers

    Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

  2. 2

    Final Searing

    For a charred finish, increase the heat to high and sear each side for an additional 1-2 minutes.

  3. 3

    Resting the Skewers

    Allow the skewers to rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain their juices.

Chef's Tips

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

    Can I make this ahead?

    Yes, marinate the beef and prepare the skewers a day in advance; grill just before serving.

    What can I substitute if I don’t have berbere spice?

    You can use a mixture of paprika, cayenne, fenugreek, cumin, and allspice as a substitute.

    Is there a vegetarian alternative?

    Yes, use large chunks of portobello mushrooms or tofu and follow the same marination process.

    Can I use a different cut of beef?

    Yes, tender cuts like filet mignon or ribeye work well for skewers.

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