Cookbook:Shiro Wat (Ethiopian Pea Stew)

Shiro Wat (Ethiopian Pea Stew)
Category	Stew recipes
Difficulty

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Shiro wat, sometimes called shiro wet, is a traditional Ethiopian pea stew.

Ingredients

• ½ cup chopped onion
• ¼ cup oil
• 4 spoons berberei (a spice mix with red pepper powder)
• 2½ cups water
• 4 spoons shiro powder (made from different cereals and beans, typically split green peas)
• Salt, to taste
• 2 spoons butter (optional)

Procedure

1. Heat a medium-size skillet, add the onion, and cook for 1–2 minutes.
2. Add the oil, and after 1 minute add berberei. Cook it for 4–5 minutes, stirring regularly and adding a dash of water if it tries to stick on the pan.
3. Add the water.
4. When the water boils, add the shiro, carefully stirring it in the pan; it should not make lumps. Then cook it for 5 minutes, stirring it regularly.
5. Finally, add salt and the butter, and after 2–3 minutes, remove it from the heat.
6. Served hot or cold with injera.

Notes, tips, and variations

• Shiro powder can be bought from Ethiopian grocers.
• Alternatively, split green peas can be used—just extend the simmering period until the peas are tender and fall apart.