Ethiopian Yellow Split Peas: The Authentic Flavors of Alicha Kik Wat Recipe:

I am excited to introduce you to the authentic flavors of Ethiopia with our traditional Ethiopian Yellow Split Peas. This dish is not only incredibly delicious but also perfect for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.

Nourishment and Flavor:

Discover the nutritional goodness of Ethiopian Yellow Split Peas. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this dish satisfies your taste buds while providing essential nutrients for a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Enjoy a dish that nourishes both your body and soul. Yellow split peas are not only visually appealing but also highly nutritious. Here are some key nutritional facts about yellow split peas:

Protein:

Yellow split peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, providing approximately 16-18 grams of protein per cooked cup. This makes them a great option for vegetarians and vegans.

Fiber:

These peas are rich in dietary fiber, which is essential for good digestive health. One cup of cooked yellow split peas contains around 16 grams of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.

Carbohydrates:

Yellow split peas are a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy. They are a healthier alternative to refined carbohydrates.

Vitamins and Minerals:

Yellow split peas are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium. Folate is important for cell growth and development, while iron is essential for healthy red blood cells.

Low in Fat:

Yellow split peas are low in fat and do not contain any cholesterol. They can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet, especially for those watching their fat intake.

Antioxidants:

These peas also contain antioxidants that help protect the body against damage from harmful free radicals. These antioxidants contribute to overall health and well-being.

Enjoy the authentic taste and nutritional benefits of Ethiopian Yellow Split Peas. Try our dish today and embark on a flavorful and healthy culinary journey.

Ethiopian Alicha Kik Wot Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups split yellow peas
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 cups water (you can replace water with vegetable broth)
• Salt, to taste
• Jalapeno (Fresh cilantro optional) for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the split peas under cold water and remove any debris. Soak the peas in water for at least 2 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

3. Add the berbere spice blend and turmeric powder to the pot and stir well to coat the onions and garlic.

4. Add the soaked split peas to the pot and stir to combine with the spices and onions.

5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the split peas are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Once the split peas are cooked, use a wooden spoon or potato masher to mash some of the peas, creating a thick and creamy consistency. You can adjust the thickness by adding more vegetable broth if desired.

7. Season with salt to taste and simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

8. Serve the Alicia Kik hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. It is traditionally enjoyed with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or rice.

Side note: For this recipe, I cooked my yellow split peas using the instant cook function on my pressure cooker for 5-7 minutes. This significantly reduces the cooking time since yellow split peas usually take a long time to cook. In my case, I used organic split peas, which require an even longer cooking time. If you have an instant pot, you can also use the instant cook function to start and finish this recipe. Stay tuned for a separate blog post on making Instant Pot Alicha Kik

Enjoy your delicious Ethiopian Alicha Kik Wot Served with Ethiopian Injera!