Ethiopian Tikel Gomen (Vegetarian Cabbage & Potato Stew)

• •1 medium head Green Cabbage (roughly chopped into 1-inch pieces)
• •2 medium Potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)
• •2 medium Carrots (peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
• •1 large Yellow Onion (finely chopped)
• •4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• •1 tbsp Fresh Ginger (grated)
• •1 tsp Turmeric Powder
• •1 tsp Cumin Powder
• •1 tsp Coriander Powder
• •1 cup Vegetable Broth
• •2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
• •1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
• •1 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground, or to taste)
• •1 piece Jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped (optional, for a hint of heat))
• •2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

2. 2

   Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped jalapeño (if using) to the pot. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

3. 3

   Stir in the turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas.

4. 4

   Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices. Pour in the vegetable broth.

5. 5

   Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the chopped cabbage. The pot will look very full, but the cabbage will cook down significantly. Stir gently to combine.

6. 6

   Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

7. 7

   Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it one final gentle stir.

8. 8

   Serve the Tikel Gomen hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro. It's traditionally enjoyed with injera, but also pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbread.

Chef's Tips

• 💡Don't overcrowd your pot in the initial stages. While the cabbage looks voluminous, it will reduce significantly. If needed, add it in batches, allowing the first batch to wilt slightly before adding more.
• 💡For extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of vegan butter or a swirl of olive oil at the end of cooking.
• 💡Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your preferred spice level. For no heat, omit it entirely.