Sautéed Ethiopian Spiced Greens (Gomen Wat)

A robust and flavorful side dish featuring tender collard greens (or kale) sautéed with aromatic onions, garlic, ginger, and the signature Ethiopian Berbere spice blend. This dish is hearty, nutritious, and a fantastic accompaniment to any meal.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Total Time: 40 min
Servings: 4
EthiopianVegetarianVeganPescatarianDairy-FreeEgg-FreeShellfish-FreeFish-Free

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb Collard Greens (about 2 large bunches, tough stems removed, chopped into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1 piece Yellow Onion (medium, finely chopped)
  • 4 clove Garlic (minced)
  • 1 inch Fresh Ginger (piece, grated or minced)
  • 1.5 tbsp Berbere Spice Blend (adjust to taste)
  • 0.5 tsp Turmeric Powder (optional, for color and earthy notes)
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
  • 0.5 cup Vegetable Broth or Water
  • to taste to taste Salt
  • to taste to taste Black Pepper

Instructions

  1. 1.

    Wash the collard greens thoroughly. Remove the tough central stems and chop the leaves into 1-inch pieces. Set aside.

    Time: 5 min
  2. 2.

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

    Time: 7 min
  3. 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. 4.

    Stir in the Berbere spice blend and turmeric powder (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aromas.

    Time: 1 min
  5. 5.

    Add the chopped collard greens to the pot. They will seem like a lot, but they will wilt down. Stir well to coat the greens with the spices and aromatics. Add the vegetable broth or water.

    Time: 3 min
  6. 6.

    Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the greens are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

    Time: 15 min
  7. 7.

    Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot as a delicious side dish.

    Time: 2 min

Tips

  • 💡If you can't find collard greens, kale or mustard greens make excellent substitutes, though cooking times might vary slightly.
  • 💡For an even richer flavor, you can add a small amount of niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter) instead of vegetable oil.
  • 💡Gomen Wat pairs wonderfully with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or as a side to roasted meats or stews.

Recipe from TheCookbook.ai

Created by smw355