Authentic Ethiopian Gomen Wat: A Delicious Collard Greens Stew Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 large bunch collard greens (about 1 pound)
  • 1 cup chopped onions
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons minced ginger
  • 2 green chili peppers, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or niter kibbeh if available)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • Salt to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the collard greens thoroughly. Remove the stems and chop the leaves into thin strips. Set aside.
  2. In a large pot or dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Add the onions, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers to the pot. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
  4. Add the turmeric, cardamom, and nutmeg to the pot. Stir well to combine and cook for a minute or two until the spices are well toasted.
  5. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot. Stir well to ensure the greens are well coated with the spice mixture.
  6. Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the greens are tender and the flavors are well combined.
  8. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste. Serve hot.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Substitute collard greens with kale, spinach, or Swiss chard for a different flavor and texture.
  • Add diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a slightly tangy twist.
  • Include protein by adding cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp.
  • For a vegan version, use vegetable oil instead of butter and vegetable broth instead of the vegetable broth.
  • Spice it up by adding cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of apple cider vinegar for a touch of acidity.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or mint for added freshness.
  • For a creamy variation, mix in coconut milk or cream towards the end of cooking.
  • Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier dish.

Recipe overview

Get ready to immerse yourself in the flavors of East Africa with this recipe for Gomen Wat, a traditional Ethiopian dish that features collard greens as the star. This dish is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, transforming humble ingredients into a meal that's both nutritious and bursting with flavor. Gomen Wat is considered a staple in Ethiopian cuisine, often served alongside other dishes on a platter of injera, a sourdough flatbread. The collard greens are slowly simmered with onions, garlic, and a blend of spices until tender and richly flavored. This Gomen Wat recipe will guide you through the process step-by-step, from preparing the collard greens to creating the flavorful base with aromatics and spices, then slowly simmering everything to perfection. It's a relatively simple process, but the result is a dish with a depth of flavor that far outstrips its simple ingredients. Whether you're new to Ethiopian cuisine or a longtime fan looking to recreate a favorite dish at home, this recipe is a great place to start.

Common questions

  1. Can I use other greens instead of collard greens? Yes, you can substitute collard greens with other leafy greens like kale or spinach if desired. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  2. What can I use instead of niter kibbeh? If you don't have niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter), regular unsalted butter works well as a substitute.
  3. Is this recipe vegan-friendly? The recipe can be made vegan-friendly by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make gomen wat ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
  5. Is gomen wat spicy? The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your preference by adding or reducing the amount of green chili peppers used in the recipe.
  6. Can I freeze leftovers? While it is possible to freeze gomen wat, the texture of the collard greens may change slightly upon thawing. It is recommended to consume it fresh for the best taste and texture.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven - A large pot or dutch oven is needed to cook the collard greens and simmer the dish.
  • Chef's Knife - A chef's knife is essential for chopping the onions, garlic, ginger, and collard greens.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board provides a safe and clean surface for chopping the ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons are necessary to accurately measure the spices and other ingredients.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula - A wooden spoon or spatula is used for stirring and sautéing the ingredients in the pot.
  • Lid or Cover - A lid or cover is needed to cover the pot and allow the collard greens to simmer and cook.
  • Servings Bowls - Serve the Gomen Wat in individual serving bowls for a beautiful presentation.
  • Rice or Injera - Gomen Wat is traditionally served with rice or injera, a type of Ethiopian flatbread.

Origin stories

Gomen Wat hails from the vibrant culinary landscape of Ethiopia, a country with a rich cultural and historical tapestry. This dish, like many in Ethiopian cuisine, is deeply intertwined with the country's religious practices. It's often consumed during the fasting periods observed by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, when animal products are avoided. The use of collard greens, a hearty and robust leafy vegetable, makes Gomen Wat a satisfying and nutrient-rich dish, even during times of fasting. The warming spices and aromatic herbs used in the recipe reflect the country's age-old trade connections, dating back to the ancient spice trade routes. So, each spoonful of Gomen Wat is not just a bite of delicious food, it's a taste of Ethiopia's grand history and rich cultural heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.