Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef: A Spicy Comfort Dish

Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef

Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef is an iconic dish that captures the heart and soul of Ethiopian cuisine. This rich and flavorful stew combines succulent beef with a blend of aromatic spices, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. With minimal hands-on time, you can create a hearty meal that fills the air with irresistible aromas. Let’s dive into the world of Sega Wat!

Why You’ll Love This Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors! Here’s why you’ll adore it:

  • Rich in Flavor: The unique blend of spices like berbere brings a spicy kick that tantalizes your taste buds.
  • Hearty and Filling: With tender beef and boiled eggs, it’s a complete meal that satisfies.
  • Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep work allows for maximum flavor with less fuss.
  • Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for family meals and gatherings, making it a social dish.
  • Gluten-Free: Suitable for gluten-sensitive diets, catering to various dietary needs.
  • Versatile Pairings: Pairs beautifully with injera or rice, enhancing the dining experience.

Experience the warmth of Ethiopian food culture with this traditional Ethiopian Sega Wat.

Ingredients for Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef

Gather these items:

  • 1.5 lbs stew beef, cut into 1–1.5 inch cubes (chuck or brisket works well)
  • 4 tbsp niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced butter) — substitute with clarified butter + ½ tsp turmeric, cardamom, and fenugreek
  • 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, chopped (about a thumb-sized piece)
  • 2 cups beef stock (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 4 tbsp berbere spice (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp salt (more to taste)

How to Make Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: Bring eggs to a rolling boil for 9–11 minutes. Cool in ice water, peel, and set aside.
  2. Step 2: In a large pot, melt niter kibbeh over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger and sauté until golden (8–12 minutes).
  3. Step 3: Sprinkle in berbere, smoked paprika, black pepper, cumin, and salt. Stir for 2–3 minutes to activate oils and fragrance.
  4. Step 4: Add tomato paste and beef stock. Stir to combine, scraping browned bits from the pot. Add stew beef, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until beef is tender.
  5. Step 5: Nestle boiled eggs into the stew and simmer on low for 8–10 minutes to absorb flavor.
  6. Step 6: Season with more salt, berbere, or a pinch of sugar if needed.

Pro Tips for the Best Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef

Keep these in mind:

  • Use high-quality beef for the best flavor.
  • Let the stew simmer longer for deeper flavors.
  • Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of berbere.
  • This dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.

Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef: A Spicy Comfort Dish - Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef

Serve this delicious stew with:

  • Injera: This traditional Ethiopian flatbread is perfect for scooping up the stew.
  • Rice: A simple side of rice complements the rich flavors.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Balance the meal with fresh veggies on the side.

How to Store and Reheat Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This dish is perfect for meal prep, and the flavors deepen as it sits.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef

What’s the secret to perfect Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef?

The secret lies in the quality of spices and the slow cooking process, allowing the beef to absorb all those aromatic flavors for a truly rich dish.

Can I make Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef ahead of time?

Yes! This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or family gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef?

Avoid overcooking the beef to keep it tender. Also, adjust the spices according to your taste for the perfect balance.

Variations of Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

  • Vegetarian Version: Substitute beef with hearty vegetables or lentils for a plant-based option.
  • Spicy Twist: Add more berbere or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Egg-Free Option: Omit the boiled eggs for a lighter dish.

Explore the rich flavors of Ethiopian cuisine with this authentic Sega Wat recipe!

Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef: A Spicy Comfort Dish - Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Pappardelle with Beef Ragu or Roasted Carrot Soup. If you’re interested in learning about the health benefits of spices, visit Healthline.

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Sega Wat Ethiopian Beef: A Spicy Comfort Dish

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Sega Wat is an iconic Ethiopian beef stew that’s rich in flavor, thanks to the combination of spiced butter, berbere, and tender beef simmered with aromatic herbs and finished with boiled eggs. It’s the perfect hearty dish for family gatherings or a special occasion, with minimal hands-on time required for maximum flavor.

  • Author: Robert
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Ethiopian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs stew beef, cut into 1–1.5 inch cubes (chuck or brisket works well)
  • 4 tbsp niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced butter) — substitute with clarified butter + ½ tsp turmeric, cardamom, and fenugreek
  • 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, chopped (about a thumb-sized piece)
  • 2 cups beef stock (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 4 tbsp berbere spice (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp salt (more to taste)

Instructions

  1. Bring eggs to a rolling boil for 9–11 minutes. Cool in ice water, peel, and set aside.
  2. In a large pot, melt niter kibbeh over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger and sauté until golden (8–12 minutes).
  3. Sprinkle in berbere, smoked paprika, black pepper, cumin, and salt. Stir for 2–3 minutes to activate oils and fragrance.
  4. Add tomato paste and beef stock. Stir to combine, scraping browned bits from the pot. Add stew beef, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until beef is tender.
  5. Nestle boiled eggs into the stew and simmer on low for 8–10 minutes to absorb flavor.
  6. Season with more salt, berbere, or a pinch of sugar if needed.

Notes

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 serving
    • Calories: 420
    • Sugar: 2g
    • Sodium: 800mg
    • Fat: 30g
    • Saturated Fat: 12g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Carbohydrates: 10g
    • Fiber: 2g
    • Protein: 32g
    • Cholesterol: 240mg

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    Hi! I’m Margaret!

    A passionate home cook and food lover who loves nothing more than sharing my favourite recipes with the world.

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