Recipe-o'-clock: Make this Exotic Ethiopian shiro wat
Shiro wat is a popular Ethiopian dish known for its rich, spicy flavor and comforting texture. Originating from the diverse culinary traditions of Ethiopia, this dish is a staple in both everyday meals and festive occasions. Made primarily from ground chickpea flour and an array of aromatic spices, shiro wat offers a delightful experience for vegetarians and spice lovers alike. Let's get cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this exotic dish, you will need: one cup of shiro powder (ground chickpea flour), two medium onions finely chopped, three cloves of garlic minced, one tablespoon of berbere spice mix, two tablespoons of tomato paste, half a cup of vegetable oil, four cups of water, salt to taste, and freshly chopped cilantro for garnishing.
Preparing the base
Begin by warming the vegetable oil in a sizable pot over a medium flame. Proceed to add the finely diced onions into the pot, sauteing them until they achieve a golden brown hue. This sauteing process is expected to last between five to seven minutes. It's crucial to stir the onions frequently throughout this period to ensure they do not burn and cook evenly.
Adding spices and tomato paste
Once the onions are golden brown, add the minced garlic and cook for another two minutes until fragrant. Then stir in the berbere spice mix thoroughly until it's well combined with the onion mixture. Add tomato paste at this stage and cook for about three more minutes; this helps develop a deep flavor base for your shiro wat.
Cooking with shiro powder
Begin by gradually adding the shiro powder into the pot, continuously stirring to ensure it seamlessly blends with the other ingredients, thus preventing any lumps from forming. As you stir, slowly incorporate water to achieve a smooth consistency. Once mixed thoroughly, allow the mixture to simmer on a low heat setting for about 20 minutes, or until it has thickened to your preference.
Final touches
Once your shiro wat has thickened to your liking, season with salt to taste. Mix well before turning off the heat. Serve this delightful Ethiopian shiro wat garnished with freshly chopped cilantro. For an authentic experience, pair it with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or rice, offering a complete and satisfying meal that perfectly captures the essence of Ethiopian cuisine.
