When it comes to Ethiopian cuisine, the aromatic and flavorful dishes never fail to captivate the taste buds. One such beloved Ethiopian dish is Kik Wot, a spicy split pea stew that delivers a delightful combination of heat and earthy flavors. Perfect for cozy nights at home or for adding a touch of exotic flair to your dinner table, this recipe for Kik Wot will introduce you to the rich culinary heritage of Ethiopia right in your own kitchen.
Kik Wot Spicy Split Pea Stew
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dried split peas
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons berbere spice blend
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
– Injera or steamed rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Start by rinsing the dried split peas under cold water to remove any dust or impurities. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the berbere spice blend, turmeric, cumin, and coriander to the pot. Stir well to coat the aromatics in the spices.
5. Mix in the tomato paste and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Add the rinsed split peas to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew cook for about 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the split peas are tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the spice level according to your preference.
9. Serve the Kik Wot hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside injera or steamed rice for a traditional Ethiopian meal experience.
With its robust flavors and comforting warmth, Kik Wot is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. The blend of spices and the hearty texture of the split peas make this dish a satisfying choice for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Feel free to customize the spice level to suit your taste buds, and don’t forget to savor each bite with a piece of injera or a fluffy mound of steamed rice. This dish brings the essence of Ethiopian cooking right to your home, inviting you to experience the rich tapestry of flavors that this cuisine has to offer. Enjoy the journey of creating and savoring this delightful Kik Wot Spicy Split Pea Stew!
