Ethiopian Chickpea Stew
- Chef John Politte
- 7 days ago
- 1 min read
Updated: 6 days ago

Ethiopian Chickpea Stew, often known as "Shiro Wat," is a beloved dish in Ethiopian cuisine. This hearty stew features ground chickpeas or chickpea flour as its main ingredient, simmered in a richly spiced sauce. The stew is renowned for its bold flavors, aromatic spices, and comforting texture, making it a staple for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Ethiopian Chickpea Stew
Ingredients
1 ½ cup vegetable broth
1/ ½ cup diced onions
1 ½ teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
½ teaspoon cardamom
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1/3 teaspoon ground ginger
1 ½ cup diced tomatoes
6 garlic cloves, minced
2 cans drained and rinsed chickpeas
1 ½ cup water, or more as needed
Method
In a large pot or deep skillet, add a splash of water or vegetable broth over medium heat. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, garlic powder, and ground ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to release their flavors, adding a bit more water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Add the diced tomatoes and the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften. Next, add the drained chickpeas and water. Stir everything well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and let the stew simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and fragrant.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with rice, naan, or as desired. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like.



Comments