Wat (food)

Wat, also known as Wot or W'et, is a traditional Ethiopian and Eritrean stew that is prepared with meat, vegetables, and a variety of spices. It is a staple dish in the cuisines of these countries and is often served with Injera, a sourdough flatbread.

Ingredients

The main ingredients in Wat include meat (usually beef, lamb, or chicken), vegetables such as onions and garlic, and a variety of spices. The most common spices used are Berbere, a spice mixture that includes chili peppers, garlic, ginger, basil, korarima, rue, ajwain or radhuni, nigella, and fenugreek, and Niter Kibbeh, a seasoned clarified butter.

Preparation

Wat is prepared by first sautéing onions in Niter Kibbeh. Once the onions are caramelized, Berbere is added, followed by the meat. The mixture is then simmered until the meat is tender. Some versions of Wat also include vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers.

Variations

There are several variations of Wat, including Doro Wat, which is made with chicken and hard-boiled eggs, and Key Wat, which is a spicy beef stew. There is also a vegetarian version of Wat known as Atkilt Wat, which is made with cabbage, carrots, and potatoes.

Serving

Wat is traditionally served with Injera, which is used to scoop up the stew. It is also often accompanied by Ayib, a homemade cottage cheese, and Teff, a grain that is native to Ethiopia and Eritrea.

Cultural Significance

Wat holds a significant place in the culinary traditions of Ethiopia and Eritrea. It is often served during special occasions and religious holidays. In particular, Doro Wat is a traditional dish served during Ethiopian Christmas and Easter.

See Also

• Ethiopian cuisine
• Eritrean cuisine
• African cuisine

References

• Ethiopian Cooking
• Eritrean Cooking
• African Cooking

External Links

• Ethiopian Recipes
• Eritrean Recipes
• African Recipes

• Wat (food)
• 
  Ethiopian wat
• A formal serving of wat atop injera in Brussels, Belgium
  A formal serving of wat atop injera in Brussels, Belgium