Spiced Butter (Niter Kebbeh)

Ethiopia

• Ready In: 1 hr 5 mins
• Yields: 1 batch

Ingredients

• 2  lbs unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1  onion, coarsely chopped
• 3  tablespoons  minced garlic
• 4  teaspoons  finely chopped fresh ginger
• 2  teaspoons ground turmeric
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1  cinnamon stick (approximately 1-inch long)
• 1  whole clove
• 1⁄8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter slowly over medium heat; do not let it brown.
2. Then bring butter to a boil.
3. Stir in the onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered and undisturbed for 45 minutes.
5. Milk solids on the bottom of the pan should be golden brown, and the butter on top will be transparent.
6. Slowly pour the clear liquid into a bowl, straining through cheesecloth.
7. It is important that no solids are left in the niter kebbeh.
8. Transfer the kebbeh into a jar.
9. Cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator.