Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes can be used and will add a slight sweetness to the stew.

How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is there a substitute for berbere spice?

You can create a similar blend with paprika, cayenne, cinnamon, and ginger.

Can this dish be made ahead?

Yes, the flavors deepen if made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

How can I reheat the stew?

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth if it has thickened too much.

Spiced Ethiopian Atakilt Wat with Cabbage and Potatoes

Name: Spiced Ethiopian Atakilt Wat with Cabbage and Potatoes
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Vegetable oil; Large onion, finely chopped; Garlic, minced; Ginger, freshly grated; Cumin seeds; Turmeric powder; Ethiopian berbere spice; Medium potatoes, peeled and cubed; Head of cabbage, coarsely chopped; Large carrots, sliced; Vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lemon wedges

Savory Ethiopian vegetable stew

A hearty and aromatic vegetable stew featuring cabbage, potatoes, and carrots, infused with Ethiopian spices.

1 h 20 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Vegetable Base

Vegetable oil

2 tbsp

Large onion, finely chopped

Garlic, minced

3 cloves

For the Spice Mix

Ginger, freshly grated

1 tbsp

Cumin seeds

2 tsp

Turmeric powder

1 tsp

Ethiopian berbere spice

1 tsp (adjust to taste)

For the Stew

Medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

Head of cabbage, coarsely chopped

1/2

Large carrots, sliced

Vegetable broth

2 cups

Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnishing

Fresh cilantro, chopped

2 tbsp

Lemon wedges

1 lemon, cut into wedges

Preparation

Preparing the Spice Mix

Combine spices

In a small bowl, combine ginger, cumin seeds, turmeric, and berbere spice.

Toasting the spices lightly before cooking can enhance their flavor.

Mix thoroughly

Mix thoroughly until well blended.

Set aside

Set aside for later use.

Chopping the Vegetables

Prep veggies

Peel and cube the potatoes; chop cabbage into coarse pieces.

Slice carrots

Slice the carrots into thick rounds.

Arrange vegetables

Keep all vegetables aside.

Be careful not to overcook the vegetables to retain their texture.

Cooking Process

Sauté the onion and garlic

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cook until soft and translucent.

Infuse the spices

Stir in the prepared spice mix, cooking for about 3 minutes until fragrant.

Simmer the stew

Add potatoes, cabbage, and carrots to the pot. Pour in vegetable broth, cover, and simmer until veggies are tender, about 30-35 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Plating & Serving