Key Wot (Ethiopian Spicy Beef Stew)

Name: Key Wot (Ethiopian Spicy Beef Stew)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 110 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Ethiopia
Ingredients: 2 lb beef stew meat, cubed; 3 large red onions, finely chopped; 1/3 cup niter kibbeh; 1/3 cup berbere spice blend; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 cups beef stock; Salt to taste

6 servings20 min prep90 min cookMedium Ethiopia

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The Story Behind It

The Tale of Key Wot (Ethiopian Spicy Beef Stew)

Story updated September 17, 2026

Key wot, or "red stew," is a fiery beef stew built on the classic Ethiopian base of berbere and slow-cooked onions, its name referring to the deep red color the chili paste gives the dish. It belongs to the broader wat family anchoring Ethiopian cuisine, traditionally served with injera and reserved for days when meat is permitted.

Ingredients

Scale:· 6 servings

2 lb beef stew meat, cubed
3 large red onions, finely chopped
1/3 cup niter kibbeh
1/3 cup berbere spice blend
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 cups beef stock
Salt to taste

Instructions

1Cook the onions in a dry pot over medium heat, stirring, until softened and dry, about 15 minutes.
2Add niter kibbeh and cook until the onions turn deep golden brown, another 10 minutes.
3Stir in berbere, garlic, and ginger and cook 3-4 minutes.
4Add tomato paste and cook 2 minutes, then pour in the beef stock.
5Add the beef, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook 60-70 minutes until very tender.
6Uncover and simmer 10 more minutes to thicken the sauce.
7Season with salt and serve hot with injera.

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