Eat This Now: Beef Tibs at Selamta Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar
Though heat waves rock the Midwest in the middle of summer, I have never been one to shy away from hot, hearty dishes in these conditions–and this summer is no different.
The next addition to my palate palace is tibs, a cross between stir-fry and stew that is a cornerstone of Ethiopian cuisine. This time, from Selamta Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar in Lenexa. Tibs are most commonly made from beef or lamb with rice or injera (a spongy flatbread) served alongside.
The process of enjoying this finger food is quite simple: First, unroll a roll of injera to be used as a base to hold the tibs. Next, pour the tibs on top of the flattened injera. Tear a piece from another injera roll, and use it to scoop up the tibs to be delivered directly to the mouth.
The injera has a sour and starchy taste that balances well with the savory beef, spices, onions, and tomatoes. If the heat isn’t enough and you want an extra kick, this dish is also commonly served with a spicy sauce called awaze. Most prominently made with T’edj (Ethiopian-style honey wine) and various spice blends, awaze adds another layer of heat and depth to this already flavor-packed dish.
At Selamta, you will find a host of traditional Ethiopian art pieces and music that add to the overall experience. I came in with a ferocious hunger, thinking the beef tibs ($18.99) would be no match, and left with my tail tucked between my legs and a to-go box containing half of the meal.
If we are going to break a sweat in this heat anyway, we might as well do it while eating a delicious meal in a place with great vibes. Beef tibs at Selamta satisfy both of those requirements.
Selamta Ethiopian Restaurant and Bar is at 12838 W 87th St, Lenexa, KS 66215.