Ethiopian Shiro Wat Recipe
Wats are a central element of Ethiopian cuisine, often featuring meat such as chicken, lamb, or beef as the main ingredient. However, not all wats are meat-based, as seen in Shiro Wat, which uses chickpeas as a protein source.Shiro Wat is one of many vegetarian dishes in Ethiopian cuisine, a reflection of the country's religious practices. With a large portion of the population being Orthodox Christians who observe fasting periods throughout the year, many will refrain from eating meat during these fasts. As a result, dishes like Shiro Wat are ideal for these dietary restrictions. Shiro Wat is an Ethiopian stew made from chickpea flour, onions, tomatoes, and spices. As a type of wat, a staple dish in Ethiopian cuisine, it is both vegetarian and gluten-free.
Ingredients
For the shiro powder
- Chickpea flour – ¾ cup
- Berbere powder – 1 tbsp
- Cumin – 1 tsp
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Cardamom – 1 tsp (optional)
For the shiro wat
- Onions, medium – 2
- Tomato paste- 1 tbsp
- Garlic, minced – 1 tsp
- Olive oil – ½ cup
- Water – 2 cups
Instructions
- If you cannot find Shiro powder at a nearby grocery store, begin by preparing your Shiro powder. Simply combine all ingredients and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet and dry roast chickpea flour, berbere, cumin, garlic powder, and salt for 2 minutes.
- To prepare the wat: Heat ½ cup of oil in a large pan and cook diced onions. Let cook for 1-2 minutes, just until aromatic and slightly translucent.
- Once aromatic, add your tomato paste and minced garlic and quickly sautee, only about 30 seconds.
- Now add your Shiro powder little by little, making sure to stir briskly with a spoon. Make sure that the powder is mixed in well before adding your 2 cups of water.
- Bring the mixture to a medium bubble, until small bubbles begin to form, and then reduce heat to medium-low.
- Let the mixture simmer for 10-20 minutes, depending on your desired consistency. Stir every few minutes.
- Once it has reached your desired consistency or the oil has begun to rise to the top, it is ready to serve. Serve alongside a salad or vegetables and injera or rice!
Nutrition
Calories: 341kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 5gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 743mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g
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