Atkilt Alicha Kebeb
Atkilt Alicha Kebeb is a mild and comforting Eritrean vegetable stew, typically made with cabbage, carrots, and potatoes simmered in a flavorful broth seasoned with turmeric and ginger. The 'Kebeb' in this context refers to the use of niter kibbeh (spiced clarified butter) which enriches the dish with its unique aroma and taste. It's a vegetarian staple, often served as a side dish or a light main course.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1/2 medium head Cabbage(thinly sliced)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced)
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(freshly grated)
- 2 tablespoons Niter Kibbeh (spiced clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil
- 2 cups Water or Vegetable Broth
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh coriander(chopped, for garnish (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of niter kibbeh in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
💡 Tip: Using both oil and niter kibbeh adds layers of flavor. - 2
Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the turmeric powder and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 5
Add the sliced cabbage, carrots, and cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices.
💡 Tip: Ensure all vegetables are roughly the same size for even cooking. - 6
Pour in the water or vegetable broth and add salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
💡 Tip: Start with less salt and add more as needed. - 7
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. - 8
Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of niter kibbeh. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 9
Garnish with fresh coriander (if using) and serve hot, typically with injera or rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water.
- ✓Ensure the vegetables are cooked until tender but not mushy.
- ✓Adjust the amount of turmeric to your preference; it provides color and a mild earthy flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like cauliflower florets or green beans.
- For a slightly different flavor profile, add a pinch of cumin.
- If you don't have niter kibbeh, you can use unsalted butter, but the aromatic complexity will be reduced.