Ethiopian Alcha Finch Wot (Mild Yellow Split Pea Stew)
A comforting and aromatic Ethiopian mild yellow split pea stew, slow-cooked with a fragrant blend of turmeric, ginger, and garlic. This wholesome dish is traditionally served with injera and offers a beautiful, earthy flavor.
Ingredients
- •1 cup Yellow Split Peas (rinsed and drained)
- •1 piece Large Yellow Onion (finely chopped)
- •4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- •1 inch Fresh Ginger (grated)
- •1 tbsp Turmeric Powder
- •2 tbsp Niter Kibbeh (Ethiopian Spiced Clarified Butter) (or use vegetable oil for a vegan option)
- •4 cups Water or Vegetable Broth
- •1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
- •0.25 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
Instructions
- 1.
Rinse the yellow split peas thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain well and set aside.
Time: 2 min - 2.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the niter kibbeh (or vegetable oil) over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Time: 7 min - 3.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Time: 2 min - 4.
Stir in the turmeric powder and cook for 1 minute more, allowing the spices to bloom. This will enhance the flavor and color.
Time: 1 min - 5.
Add the rinsed split peas to the pot along with the water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Time: 5 min - 6.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the split peas are tender and the stew has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Time: 25 min - 7.
Season the Alcha Finch Wot with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust any seasonings as needed.
Time: 1 min - 8.
Serve hot, traditionally with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or rice.
Tips
- 💡For a richer flavor, consider soaking the split peas for an hour before cooking, then draining. This can also reduce cooking time slightly.
- 💡If you don't have niter kibbeh, regular clarified butter or a high-quality vegetable oil works well, though niter kibbeh adds a unique depth.
- 💡Alcha wot is known for its mild flavor. If you prefer a little heat, you can add a pinch of green chili pepper (like a minced jalapeño) along with the garlic and ginger.
Recipe from TheCookbook.ai
Created by Ruth H