Cookbook:Yetakelt Alicha (Ethiopian Vegetable Stew)

Yetakelt Alicha (Ethiopian Vegetable Stew)
Category	Ethiopian recipes
Difficulty

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Yetakelt alicha is a flavorful and comforting Ethiopian vegetable stew made with a medley of vegetables cooked in a mild and aromatic sauce. This vegetarian stew is a popular part of Ethiopian cuisine and is enjoyed as a main course with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or rice.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
• Salt, to taste
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup vegetable broth or water
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

• Large saucepan or pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife

Procedure

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the turmeric, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat the onions, garlic, and ginger with the spices.
4. Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, green beans, cauliflower florets, and broccoli florets to the saucepan. Stir to combine the vegetables with the spice mixture.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth or water, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the stew cook for about 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Check the seasoning and adjust with salt or additional spices if desired.
7. Remove from heat and let the yetakelt alicha rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Garnish the stew with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley.
9. Serve hot as a main course, accompanied by injera or rice.

Notes, tips, and variations

• Adjust the spiciness of the stew by adding more or less cayenne pepper according to your taste preferences.
• You can customize the vegetables used in the stew according to your preference and seasonal availability.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mash some of the cooked vegetables using a fork or potato masher.
• Some recipes include the addition of tomatoes or tomato paste for a tangy twist.
• You can add other vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or cabbage to the stew for added variety.
• It is a flavorful and satisfying option for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.