Gomen and Cheese Bake

• •2 lb Collard Greens (cleaned, tough stems removed, chopped)
• •1 piece Yellow Onion (medium, finely chopped)
• •4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• •1 tbsp Fresh Ginger (grated)
• •3 tbsp Niter Kibbeh (or unsalted butter/clarified butter)
• •1.5 tsp Berbere Spice Blend (adjust to taste for heat)
• •0.5 cup Vegetable Broth
• •0.5 cup Heavy Cream
• •1.5 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded, divided)
• •0.5 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• •to taste Salt
• •to taste Black Pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch (or similar) baking dish.

2. 2

   Heat Niter Kibbeh (or butter) in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

3. 3

   Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

4. 4

   Stir in the berbere spice blend and cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom. Add the chopped collard greens and vegetable broth. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. 5

   Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and 1 cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese into the cooked gomen until the cheese is mostly melted and incorporated.

6. 6

   Transfer the gomen mixture to your prepared baking dish. Top evenly with the remaining 0.5 cup Monterey Jack cheese and the 0.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese.

7. 7

   Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Chef's Tips

• 💡If you don't have Niter Kibbeh, you can use regular unsalted butter and add a pinch of turmeric and cardamom for a similar aromatic profile.
• 💡For extra heat, increase the amount of berbere or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• 💡This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or crusty bread to scoop up all the cheesy goodness.
• 💡Ensure your collard greens are thoroughly washed and dried before chopping to remove any grit.