Yekhen Batata bil Kuzbara (Potato and Cilantro Stew)
A comforting and flavorful Palestinian stew featuring tender potatoes simmered in a fragrant broth with garlic and fresh cilantro. This dish is a staple in Palestinian homes, often served with rice or bread.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and cubed into 4cm pieces)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 large Onion(finely diced)
- 6 cloves Garlic cloves(crushed)
- 0.5 cup Fresh cilantro(finely chopped, plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp Ground coriander
- 2.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 5 cups Water or Vegetable Stock
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
💡 Tip: If the pot becomes dry, add a tablespoon of water. - 2
Add the crushed garlic and half of the chopped cilantro to the pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 3
Add the cubed potatoes, ground coriander, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to coat the potatoes evenly with the onion, garlic, and cilantro mixture.
💡 Tip: Ensure all potato pieces are well-coated. - 4
Pour in the water or vegetable stock. Stir everything to combine evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
💡 Tip: Using vegetable stock will add more depth of flavor. - 5
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Skim off any froth that rises to the surface. - 6
Stir in the remaining fresh cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
💡 Tip: Fresh cilantro added at the end provides a bright, fresh flavor. - 7
Serve hot, garnished with extra chopped cilantro. This stew is traditionally enjoyed over a bed of bulgur and vermicelli pilaf, or with fresh bread.
💡 Tip: A squeeze of lemon juice can be added before serving for extra brightness.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use chicken stock instead of water.
- ✓Be careful not to over-stir the potatoes to help them maintain their shape.
- ✓This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated; the flavors often deepen overnight.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of allspice or a dash of cinnamon for a warmer spice profile.
- Include other root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes along with the potatoes.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked chickpeas or white beans in the last 15 minutes of simmering.