Ethiopian Doro Alicha with Mild Cumin Sauce

Name: Ethiopian Doro Alicha with Mild Cumin Sauce
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 4 chicken legs, skin removed; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp turmeric; 2 large onions, finely chopped; 3 tbsp vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1.5 inches ginger, grated; 1 tsp cumin seeds; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 cup chicken stock or water; Salt to taste; 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled; Injera or white rice

A gentle and aromatic chicken stew with rich, subtle flavors

Doro Alicha is a mild, yet flavorful chicken stew hailing from Ethiopian cuisine, characterized by a soothing blend of spices and a deliciously fragrant sauce.

1 h 45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

4 chicken legs, skin removed

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp salt

1 tsp turmeric

For the Stew Base

2 large onions, finely chopped

3 tbsp vegetable oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1.5 inches ginger, grated

For the Sauce

1 tsp cumin seeds

1 tsp ground coriander

1/2 cup chicken stock or water

Salt to taste

For the Accompaniments

4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled

Injera or white rice

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

Rinse and Dry the Chicken

Rinse the chicken legs and pat dry.

Combine Marinade Ingredients

In a bowl, combine lemon juice, salt, and turmeric.

Marinate the Chicken

Rub the mixture over the chicken. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Marinating overnight enhances the flavors significantly.

Preparing the Stew Base

Heat Oil and Sauté Onions

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté for 10-12 minutes until deeply caramelized.

Do not rush the caramelization of onions; it's key to the flavor.

Stir in Garlic and Ginger

Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Cooking Process

Browning the Chicken

Sear the marinated chicken in the pot until lightly browned on all sides.

Building the Stew

Add cumin seeds, ground coriander, and chicken stock to the pot. Stir to combine.

Simmering

Cover the pot and simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, occasionally stirring.

Plating & Serving