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Alicha

The Quirky Foodster Team

(0)
15 minutes
Prep
35 minutes
Cook

Ingredients

  • 2 medium Potatoes, cubed
  • 2 Carrots, sliced
  • 1 medium Red onion, sliced
  • 2 Garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp Fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 tsp Ground turmeric
  • 45 ml (3 tbsp) Vegetable oil
  • 200 ml (3/4 cup) Water
  • 1 tsp Salt

Method

  1. Heat the oil in a saucepan and sauté the onion over medium heat until translucent, about 6 minutes.
  2. Add the garlic, ginger and turmeric and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the potatoes and carrots, stirring to coat in the spiced oil.
  4. Pour in the water, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Season with salt and serve warm alongside a spicier main stew.

Introduction: Alicha is a mild, turmeric-tinted vegetable stew served as a cooling counterpoint to the heat of dishes like zigni, providing balance on a shared plate of injera topped with several stews.

Cultural Background: Alicha is a mild, turmeric-tinted vegetable stew served as a cooling counterpoint to the heat of dishes like zigni, providing balance on a shared plate of injera topped with several stews.

Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water.

Tips: Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Keep the heat gentle — alicha is meant to stay mild rather than caramelised.

Variations: Add green beans or cabbage for extra variety. Use sweet potato in place of regular potato for a naturally sweeter version. Naturally vegan as written.

Nutrition: Calories: 175 kcal · Protein: 3 g · Carbs: 27 g · Fat: 7 g · Fiber: 4 g

FAQs:

Q: Why is alicha served alongside spicier dishes?
A: Its mild, turmeric-forward flavour balances richer, berbere-heavy stews when eaten together over injera.

Q: Can I add meat to this dish?
A: Some households add cubed lamb or beef, though the vegetable-only version remains the everyday standard.