Zigni

Dive into the bold and aromatic flavors of Zigni, a traditional Eritrean and Ethiopian stew that’s guaranteed to elevate your dinner table. This rich and hearty dish features tender chunks of beef or lamb simmered in a luxuriously spiced tomato-based sauce, infused with the vibrant heat of berbere spice—a cornerstone of East African cuisine. Slow-cooked to perfection, the savory broth is flavored with a fragrant blend of onions, garlic, and ginger, creating layers of irresistible depth. Serve this comforting stew over injera, a classic sourdough flatbread, or alongside a bed of steamed rice for a truly authentic experience. Simple to prepare yet deeply satisfying, Zigni offers a taste of East African culinary tradition in every bite.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 g Beef (or lamb, cubed)
• 2 large Onions, finely chopped
• 4 Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp Ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp Berbere spice mix
• 3 medium Tomatoes, diced
• 2 tbsp Tomato paste
• 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
• 250 ml Water or beef stock
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper
• 2 tbsp Cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become soft and golden brown.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the berbere spice mix and stir well to coat the onions evenly, cooking for another minute to release the spices’ aroma.

Step 5

Add the cubed beef (or lamb) to the pot, stirring to coat the meat with the spice mixture. Cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the meat to brown on all sides.

Step 6

Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well to combine. Let it cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.

Step 7

Add the water or beef stock, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly, then bring the stew to a gentle boil.

Step 8

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 40–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 9

Adjust seasoning with more salt or berbere spice, if needed. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Step 10

Serve hot with injera or steamed rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1541.8 grams (1541.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1872

Total Fat 142.10g	182%
Saturated Fat 45.70g	229%
Polyunsaturated Fat 25.20g
Cholesterol 400mg	133%
Sodium 2779mg	121%
Total Carbohydrate 63.60g	23%
Dietary Fiber 14.80g	53%
Total Sugars 26.50g
Protein 110.70g	221%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 226mg	17%
Iron 18mg	97%
Potassium 3322mg	71%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 64.7%

Protein: 22.4%

Carbs: 12.9%