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.

Ethiopian Coffee-Infused Beef Skewers with Berbere

Name: Ethiopian Coffee-Infused Beef Skewers with Berbere
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Appetizer
Ingredients: 1 cup freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 3 cloves garlic; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1.5 lbs beef sirloin; 2 tablespoons berbere spice mix; 1 medium red onion; 1 bell pepper; 8 wooden skewers

A spicy and aromatic twist on traditional kebabs

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.

1 h 45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1 cup freshly brewed Ethiopian coffee

cooled

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

3 cloves garlic

minced

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Beef

1.5 lbs beef sirloin

cut into 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons berbere spice mix

1 medium red onion

cut into wedges

1 bell pepper

cut into 1-inch pieces

For the Skewers

8 wooden skewers

soaked in water for 30 minutes

Preparation

Marinating the Beef

Combine ingredients

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

Marinate beef

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

Refrigerate

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

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

Preparing the Skewers

Preheat grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Dry beef

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

Season beef

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

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

Cooking Process

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.

Final Searing

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

Resting the Skewers

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

Plating & Serving