How to make "Squid Tibs"

Name: Squid Tibs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Ethiopian
Ingredients: 2 lbs of fresh squid; 3/4 of a red onion; 3 cloves of garlic; 1 jalapeño pepper; 1 tomato; ¼ cup oil; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 ¼ teaspoon rosemary; ½ teaspoon kibe (Ethiopian spiced butter)

Tibs is a traditional Ethiopian dish, often made from beef or lamb. The word "tibs" refers to a style of preparation that involves pan-searing, sautéing or grilling meat, usually in a clay cooking pot known as a "shakla dist". The meat is typically cut into bite-sized pieces and is seasoned with a blend of spices, onions, and sometimes peppers. It is a common dish in Ethiopia and is often enjoyed in a communal setting, where people gather around a large platter and eat the meal with Injera.

However, in our recipe today, we're putting a unique spin on this Ethiopian classic by replacing the traditional beef with squid. This variation is perfect for pescatarians and seafood lovers alike, offering a creative blend of Ethiopian flavors with a seafood twist. The squid adds a unique texture and flavor to the dish that makes it truly unique.

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Everything for this recipe

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The spices that make it Squid Tibs

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The fresh stuff

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The gear

What we cook it in

Squid wants fast, high heat. We get the hard sear in the Titanium Always Pan Pro and bring it to the table on the Our Place dinner plates.

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Ingredients

2 lbs of fresh squid
3/4 of a red onion
3 cloves of garlic
1 jalapeño pepper
1 tomato
¼ cup oil
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 ¼ teaspoon rosemary
½ teaspoon kibe (Ethiopian spiced butter)

Instructions

Step 1
Clean the squid thoroughly. Remove the tentacles and ink sac, and slice the bodies into rings.

Step 2
Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions become translucent.

Step 3
Add the chopped jalapeño pepper and tomato to the pan and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

Step 4
Add the squid rings to the pan and stir well to ensure all the pieces are coated with the flavorful onion, garlic, jalapeño, and tomato mixture.

Step 5
Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and rosemary. Stir again to distribute the spices evenly.

Step 6
Cook the squid for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes opaque and tender. Be careful not to overcook the squid as it can become rubbery.

Step 7
Finally, add the kibe (Ethiopian spiced butter) and give the dish one final stir to blend all the flavors together.

Step 8
Serve your Squid Tibs hot, ideally with injera or rice.