Ethiopian Alcha Shiro Wot (Mild Chickpea Stew)
A delightful and comforting Ethiopian chickpea stew, 'Alcha Shiro Wot' is known for its mild, savory flavor, achieved through a blend of aromatic spices and ground chickpeas. This creamy, hearty dish is perfect served with injera or rice.
Ingredients
- •1 piece Red Onion (large, finely chopped)
- •4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- •1 tbsp Fresh Ginger (grated)
- •1/4 cup Vegetable Oil
- •1 cup Shiro Powder (roasted chickpea flour) (ensure it's a mild (alcha) blend, not 'wot' blend)
- •1 tsp Turmeric Powder
- •1/2 tsp Cumin Powder
- •3-4 cups Water or Vegetable Broth (as needed for desired consistency)
- •1 piece Green Chili (optional, slit lengthwise for mild heat, or minced for more)
- •to taste to taste Salt
- •2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro (chopped, for garnish (optional))
Instructions
- 1.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Do not brown.
Time: 10 min - 2.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Time: 3 min - 3.
Stir in the turmeric powder and cumin powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring well to combine with the onion mixture.
Time: 1 min - 4.
In a separate bowl, gradually whisk the shiro powder with 1 cup of cold water or broth until a smooth, lump-free paste forms. This prevents lumps when added to the hot pot.
Time: 2 min - 5.
Pour the shiro paste into the pot with the onion mixture, stirring constantly. Gradually add the remaining 2-3 cups of water or broth, continuing to stir until the stew begins to thicken and is smooth. The amount of liquid depends on your desired consistency; start with less and add more if needed.
Time: 5 min - 6.
Bring the shiro wot to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If using, add the whole green chili during this simmering phase.
Time: 15 min - 7.
Season with salt to taste. Remove the green chili (if used). Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired, typically with injera or rice.
Time: 2 min
Tips
- 💡To ensure a smooth shiro, always mix the shiro powder with cold liquid first to create a paste before adding it to the hot pot.
- 💡For a richer flavor, you can use vegetable broth instead of water.
- 💡Adjust the consistency by adding more water/broth for a thinner stew or simmering longer for a thicker one.
Recipe from TheCookbook.ai
Created by Ruth H