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Doro Wat: Instant Pot Ethiopian Chicken Stew

Ethiopian cuisine is celebrated for its rich flavours, wholesome spices, and communal dining experience. Among its many cherished dishes, Doro Wat, a spicy chicken stew, stands out as a hallmark of Ethiopian culinary heritage. Traditionally served with injera (a sourdough flatbread), Doro Wat is often the star of family gatherings and festive occasions. In this modern era, the Instant Pot has revolutionised the way we cook, making it possible to enjoy this hearty dish with ease and efficiency. In this article, we’ll explore how to make Instant Pot Ethiopian Chicken Stew, or Doro Wat, in a way that’s accessible for all home cooks.

Ingredients

To prepare Doro Wat in an Instant Pot, you will need the following ingredients:

• Ingredients:
  • 1.5 kg chicken, cut into pieces (preferably bone-in, skin-on)
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons berbere spice mix (a key Ethiopian spice blend)
  • 2 tablespoons niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter) or regular butter for non-vegetarian option
  • 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, diced)
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • Salt, to taste
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh coriander (cilantro), for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Equipment

• Instant Pot or similar electric pressure cooker
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken: Before cooking, it’s advisable to marinate the chicken pieces with a bit of salt, garlic, and ginger. Allow them to sit for at least 30 minutes. This step enhances the depth of flavour, although it’s not strictly necessary if you’re short on time.

Step 2: Sautéing

1. Sauté the Onions:

   • Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the niter kibbeh (or butter) and allow it to melt.
   • Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 10-15 minutes until they are golden brown and caramelised. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Add Garlic and Ginger:

   • Once the onions are nicely browned, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Incorporate the Spices:
   • Stir in the berbere spice mix and cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the spices to toast slightly. This step releases their aromatic flavours and enhances the stew’s overall taste.

Step 3: Building the Stew

1. Add the Chicken:

   • Gently add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot, making sure they are well coated with the onion and spice mixture.
2. Add Tomatoes and Stock:
   • Pour in the chopped tomatoes, stirring to combine. Then add the chicken stock, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to prevent the burn notice.

Step 4: Pressure Cooking

1. Pressure Cook:

   • Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 10 minutes.
2. Natural Release:
   • Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes. If there’s any steam left, carefully do a quick release.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. Add Hard-Boiled Eggs:

   • If using, add the hard-boiled eggs to the stew during the last 5 minutes of natural release or after releasing the pressure.
2. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Give the stew a good stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust with salt as needed.

Step 6: Serving

1. Serve Your Doro Wat:
   • Serve the Doro Wat hot, garnished with fresh coriander. Pair it with warm injera or steamed rice, alongside lemon wedges for that extra zing.

Conclusion

Doro Wat made in the Instant Pot is a delightful way to bring the flavours of Ethiopia into your kitchen with minimal fuss. The pressure cooker not only speeds up the cooking process but also helps to lock in the flavours, resulting in a savoury stew that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you are familiar with Ethiopian cuisine or trying something new, this hearty stew is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your culinary journey into the heart of Ethiopia, one delicious bite at a time!

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