Ingredients

2 lbs stewing beef , in cubes
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large onions , chopped
4 garlic cloves , crushed
2 cans plum tomatoes with liquid
2 beef bouillon cubes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 cup dry red wine ( optional )
salt
pepper
lemon juice ( optional )
fresh coriander ( cilantro ) ( optional )
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground fenugreek
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon salt
7 tablespoons mixed mild and hot paprika ( see below )
Zigni is a classic Eritrean dish that is often served at festivals and special occasions. This flavorful stew is made with tender cubes of beef that are cooked in a rich and spicy tomato-based sauce. The addition of garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices gives this dish a unique and complex flavor that is sure to satisfy any palate. Like many Eritrean dishes, Zigni is often served with injera bread, a soft and spongy flatbread that is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce. This recipe has a spicy twist, adding an extra kick to the already flavorful dish.

Instructions

1.Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and add in the onions. Cook until the onions start to brown, stirring occasionally.
2.Add in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3.Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides.
4.Add the plum tomatoes (with liquid) and break them up with a wooden spoon.
5.Add the beef bouillon cubes, tomato paste, and red wine (optional) and mix until combined. If using, add the lemon juice, coriander, and 1/2 cup of water.
6.Add the ginger, fenugreek, black pepper, coriander, cardamom, cloves, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and mixed paprika to the pot and mix until evenly distributed.
7.Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 1-2 hours until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Add more water if necessary.
8.Serve hot with injera bread and enjoy!

PROS

Zigni is a flavorful and hearty stew that is packed with protein and nutrients.
The beef and tomatoes provide a good source of iron, while the spices and garlic offer a host of health benefits.

CONS

This recipe is quite spicy, so it may not be suitable for those who are sensitive to heat.
The stew also requires a lengthy cooking time, so it may not be ideal for those looking for a quick meal.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Zigni is a healthy and nutritious dish that is a staple in Eritrean cuisine. The beef and tomatoes provide a good source of iron, while the garlic and spices have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger and fenugreek have been shown to help with digestion and offer a range of other health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health.

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