Ethiopian Shiro Wat
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Course
Main Course
Ethiopian Shiro Wat
Description
Shiro Wat is an Ethiopian chickpea stew that starts with gently sweating diced onions in oil to develop sweetness without browning. Tomatoes are added and cooked down to enrich the base. Garlic is introduced for flavor, then hot water and shiro powder (ground chickpeas) are stirred in carefully to avoid lumps. Cooking continues to thicken the stew to a smooth consistency.
Berbere spice adds warmth and complexity, while salt adjusts seasoning. The dish can be garnished with sliced jalapeño for additional heat. The texture is creamy and hearty due to the chickpeas, making it a filling vegetarian option often enjoyed with injera or bread.
This preparation highlights balancing moisture and heat to maintain a smooth, lump-free stew. Adding water during cooking allows control over thickness. The combination of spices and simple ingredients results in a savory, mildly spicy dish that showcases Ethiopian flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup shiro powder ground chickpeas
- 1 onion diced
- 2 tsp garlic grated
- 1 tomato finely diced
- 1 jalapeño sliced - no seed (optional)
- 1/2 cup canola oil or Niter Kibbeh
- 1 tsp berbere
- 1 tsp salt
- 5 cups water
Instructions
- Finely dice the onion and sauté in a tablespoon of the oil over medium heat. Stir frequently for 6 minutes, allowing the onion to sweat slowly. Have on hand a cup of hot water to add as needed to prevent browning.
- Add the rest of the oil and cook until the onion is translucent and tender, for about another 2 minutes.
- Add the tomato and mix, allowing for the sauce to cook down for approximately 6 minutes.
- Add the garlic and sauté, adding splashes of water as needed. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the rest of the water and bring to a boil.
- Pour in the shiro powder (ground chickpeas) and stir frequently to ensure the mixture is not lumpy. Cook on high heat for another 4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat slightly to a simmer, and allow to thicken. Add water as needed until you have the desired texture and thickness.
- Stir in the berbere, add sea salt to taste, and garnish with Jalapeno (optional).
Notes
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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