Hamli (Ethiopian Spinach Stew)
Hamli is a vibrant and flavorful dish made with fresh spinach and a blend of aromatic spices. This vegetarian stew is a popular side dish in Ethiopian cuisine and pairs well with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or rice.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon coriander
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
- 2 pounds fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well to coat the onions with the spices.
- Add the chopped spinach to the saucepan and stir to combine it with the spice mixture.
- Cover the saucepan and let the spinach cook for about 10–15 minutes, or until it wilts down and becomes tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Pour in the vegetable broth or water, and continue cooking the stew for another 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot as a side dish, accompanied by injera or rice.