Kik Alicha (ክክ አልጫ)
Ingredients:
1 cup split yellow lentils (chana dal), rinsed and drained
2 tbsps. niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter) or regular butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. grated ginger
1 tsp. ground turmeric
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/2 tsp. ground coriander
3 cups vegetable broth or water
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Type:
Foods
Directions
1. In a large pot or saucepan, heat the niter kibbeh or butter over
medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and
translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, ground turmeric, ground
cumin, and ground coriander to the pot.
4. Stir well to coat the onions with the spices and cook for an
additional 2 minutes to release the flavors.
5. Add the rinsed split yellow lentils to the pot and stir them with the
onion-spice mixture.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth or water, and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the lentils simmer for
about 30-40 minutes, or until they become tender and start to break
down.
8. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
9. Check the lentils for desired tenderness.
10. If needed, add more broth or water and continue cooking
until the lentils reach the desired consistency.
11. Season with salt to taste.
12. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro.