Ethiopian Spiced Beef Jerky Delight (Quwanta)
Discover the rich and aromatic flavors of Ethiopia with this delectable Spiced Beef Jerky recipe, known as Quwanta. This traditional dish transforms lean top round steak into a savory snack that boasts a perfect balance of spices, enhancing the natural flavor of the beef. Ideal for outdoor adventures, game days, or simply as a protein-packed nibble, this jerky is easy to make at home and can be enjoyed during any time of the year. Share it with friends and family, or keep it as a delicious treat for yourself. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds!
15
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef top round steak
5 lbs (trimmed of fat, cut into long strips in a zigzag shape)
mild chili powder (Awaze)
2 tablespoons (dry)
dry wine or sherry wine
3 tablespoons (choose between dry wine or sherry)
olive oil or vegetable oil
1 tablespoon (choose between olive or vegetable oil)
cardamom powder (Korerima)
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
salt
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your food dehydrator or jerky maker according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2
Carefully remove any remaining fat from the beef top round steak and slice the meat into long, even strips, ideally in a zigzag pattern for better drying.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the mild chili powder (Awaze), dry wine or sherry, olive oil or vegetable oil, cardamom powder, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix well until fully blended into a thick marinade.
4
Place the strips of meat into the marinade, ensuring each strip is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
5
Once marinated, arrange the beef strips in a single layer on the dehydrator trays or in the jerky maker. Make sure there is adequate space between each piece to allow for airflow.
6
Dehydrate the beef for approximately 6-8 hours, or until they reach a crisp and dry consistency. The drying time can vary based on the thickness of the strips and the specific dehydrator model.
7
Once dried, remove the jerky from the dehydrator and allow it to cool completely before breaking it into smaller, snack-sized pieces.
8
Store the beef jerky in a tightly sealed glass jar or an airtight container. This jerky makes an excellent snack or appetizer, perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quwanta?
Quwanta is a traditional Ethiopian spiced beef jerky known for its rich and aromatic flavors, often enjoyed as a protein-packed snack.
What cut of meat is best for making Ethiopian beef jerky?
This recipe recommends using 5 lbs of beef top round steak, which should be trimmed of all remaining fat.
What is Awaze in the context of this recipe?
Awaze refers to the mild chili powder used in the marinade to give the jerky its signature spice profile.
What is Korerima?
Korerima is the Ethiopian name for cardamom powder, which is a key aromatic ingredient in this jerky recipe.
How should the beef be sliced for Quwanta?
The beef should be sliced into long, even strips, preferably in a zigzag pattern to ensure better drying.
How long should the beef marinate?
The beef strips should be marinated for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow for maximum flavor absorption.
What kind of oil can be used in the marinade?
You can use either olive oil or vegetable oil for the marinade.
Is wine necessary for the Quwanta marinade?
The recipe calls for three tablespoons of dry wine or sherry to help create the thick marinade base.
How long does it take to dehydrate the beef?
The dehydration process typically takes between 6 to 8 hours depending on the thickness of the meat and the dehydrator model.
What is the target consistency for the finished jerky?
The beef jerky should be dehydrated until it reaches a crisp and dry consistency.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to produce approximately 15 servings.
What equipment do I need to make this jerky?
You will need a food dehydrator or a jerky maker to properly dry the spiced meat strips.
How should the jerky be stored?
Store the completely cooled jerky in a tightly sealed glass jar or an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I use a different type of chili powder?
While the recipe specifies mild chili powder (Awaze) for authenticity, you can adjust the spice level to your preference.
Is it necessary to preheat the dehydrator?
Yes, you should preheat your food dehydrator or jerky maker according to the manufacturer's specific instructions.
How do I arrange the meat on the dehydrator trays?
Arrange the strips in a single layer with enough space between each piece to allow for proper airflow.
Should the jerky be cooled before storage?
Yes, it is important to let the jerky cool completely before breaking it into pieces and sealing it in a container.
What are the primary flavors of Quwanta?
The flavor profile is savory and aromatic, featuring cardamom, black pepper, and mild chili.
Is this recipe suitable for high-protein diets?
Yes, this beef jerky is a protein-rich snack ideal for those looking for a protein-packed nibble.
Can I substitute sherry wine?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of either sherry wine or a dry wine.
How much cardamom is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom powder (Korerima).
What is the purpose of the zigzag cut?
The zigzag pattern increases the surface area and allows for more even and effective drying.
Is there much salt in this recipe?
The recipe uses a small amount of salt (1/8 teaspoon) or salt to taste.
Can this jerky be eaten as an appetizer?
Yes, it makes an excellent snack or appetizer that is perfect for sharing.
What are some ideal occasions for serving Quwanta?
It is ideal for outdoor adventures, game days, or as a general savory snack.
Does the recipe require ground black pepper?
Yes, it includes 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper for added seasoning.
Is the fat removal step important?
Yes, carefully removing the fat ensures the jerky dries correctly and improves its shelf life.
Can I make this recipe year-round?
Yes, this traditional Ethiopian dish can be prepared and enjoyed during any time of the year.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to preheat your food dehydrator or jerky maker according to instructions.
Is the marinade thick or thin?
The ingredients should be mixed until they are fully blended into a thick marinade.