RecipesEthiopiaYatakilt Alicha (Ethiopian Mild Vegetable Stew)

Yatakilt Alicha (Ethiopian Mild Vegetable Stew)

A comforting and mild Ethiopian vegetable stew featuring tender carrots, potatoes, and cabbage, gently simmered with aromatic spices. This dish is naturally vegan and often prepared during fasting periods.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time35-40 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Servings6
DifficultyEasy

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1/2 medium head (about 4 cups shredded) Cabbage
  • 3 medium (about 1 lb) Potatoes
  • 3 medium (about 1/2 lb) Carrots
  • 1 large Yellow Onion
  • 3-4 cloves Garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric
  • 4 tablespoons Neutral Cooking Oil(Such as vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil)
  • 1/2 cup Water or Vegetable Broth(For simmering)
  • to taste Salt
  • optional, to taste Black Pepper

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare all your vegetables: thinly slice the cabbage, peel and cube the potatoes into 1-inch pieces, peel and slice the carrots, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready (mise en place) will make the cooking process smoother.

    ⏱️ 15 minutes
  2. 2

    Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat (approximately 180°C / 350°F). Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and turmeric, and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

    ⏱️ 8 minutes
  3. 3

    Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir well to coat them with the onion, garlic, and turmeric mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to lightly sear the vegetables.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
  4. 4

    Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the pot. Pour in the 1/2 cup of water or vegetable broth. Stir everything together. The liquid will help steam the vegetables.

    ⏱️ 2 minutes
  5. 5

    Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let the stew cook. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender but not mushy, and the cabbage has softened.

    ⏱️ 20-25 minutes
  6. 6

    Once the vegetables are tender, remove the lid. Season generously with salt to taste. If desired, add a pinch of black pepper. Stir well and let it simmer uncovered for another 2-3 minutes to allow any excess liquid to evaporate and the flavors to meld.

    ⏱️ 3 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water.
  • Adjust the amount of turmeric to your preference; it provides both color and a warm, earthy flavor.
  • Serve hot with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) for an authentic experience.
  • This dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a handful of green beans along with the cabbage for extra color and texture.
  • Incorporate other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes.
  • For a touch of heat, add a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving

CaloriesApprox. 180-200 per serving (depending on oil used)
Protein4g
Carbs28g
Fat8g
Fiber6g

🏷️ Tags

Yatakilt Alicha (Ethiopian Mild Vegetable Stew) Recipe - Ethiopia | world.food