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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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course stews
Cuisine Ethiopian
Servings 4
Calories 341 kcal

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
Keyword Ethiopian Shiro Wat Recipe
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