Alicha Wot (Mild Ethiopian Stew)
Alicha wot is a mild and flavorful Ethiopian stew known for its aromatic spices and comforting flavors. Unlike its spicier counterparts, alicha wot features a milder seasoning profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less fiery dish.
Total Time
1 hour
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons berbere spice blend
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
500 grams (1 lb) beef, cubed
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups beef broth or water
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté until they become translucent and slightly browned.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Stir in the berbere spice blend, tomato paste, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine the spices with the onions, garlic, and ginger.
Add the beef to the pot and stir to coat it with the spice mixture. Cook the beef for a few minutes until it is browned on all sides.
Pour in the beef broth or water, ensuring that the beef is fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
1 hour
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Remove the pot from the heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot with injera or bread, and enjoy the mild yet flavorful experience of this Ethiopian stew.
- •If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the beef with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and green beans. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- •Adjust the spiciness of the stew by adding more or less berbere spice blend according to your taste preferences.
- •Browning the beef before adding the spices adds depth of flavor to the stew. Take the time to brown the beef properly.
- •Alicha wot tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Consider making it in advance and reheating it before serving.
- •Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or cabbage to the stew for added texture and flavor.
- •Experiment with different meats such as lamb or chicken for a variation in taste and texture.