Ugandan Entula (Eggplant Stew)
Entula is a flavorful and hearty vegetarian stew that highlights the earthy taste of eggplant, combined with a variety of vegetables and aromatic spices. It's a wholesome dish often served with Ugandan staples.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 large Eggplants(diced)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onions(diced)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch piece Ginger(grated)
- 1 cup Tomatoes(diced)
- 1 cup Bell peppers(diced (any color))
- 1 cup Carrots(diced)
- 1 cup Zucchini or squash(diced)
- 1 cup Potatoes(diced)
- 1 tbsp Curry powder
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 0.5 tsp Ground turmeric
- 0.5 tsp Chili powder(optional, for heat)
- 2 cups Vegetable broth or water
- 1 tsp Salt(to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(to taste)
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for another minute until aromatic.
⏱️ 1 minute - 3
Add the diced eggplants, tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and potatoes to the pot. Mix well to combine all the vegetables.
💡 Tip: You can salt and drain the eggplant beforehand to reduce bitterness, though it's often not necessary for this stew. - 4
Sprinkle the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, and chili powder (if using) over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Pour the vegetable broth or water into the pot, ensuring the vegetables are mostly covered. Bring the mixture to a boil.
💡 Tip: Start with 2 cups of liquid; you can add more if the stew becomes too thick. - 6
Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 7
Once the stew is ready, adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
💡 Tip: The stew should have a rich, savory, and slightly earthy flavor.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Customize the stew by adding other vegetables like green beans or sweet potatoes.
- ✓For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk or a tablespoon of peanut butter before serving.
- ✓Entula is traditionally served with Ugandan staples like rice, posho, or matoke.
🔄 Variations
- Add a can of drained chickpeas or lentils for extra protein.
- Increase the chili powder or add fresh chilies for a spicier version.