Ethiopian Fasolia

SpiceBreeze

Discover the enchanting flavors of Ethiopia through the aromatic wonder that is Fasolia. Picture a culinary mosaic where green beans and carrots unite, bathed in a fragrant blend of spices that beckons to the heart of East African tradition. As you indulge in the tender embrace of these stewed vegetables, allow the rich tapestry of Ethiopian cuisine to unfold on your palate. Fasolia is not just a dish; it's a sensory voyage, inviting you to savor the essence of vibrant markets and diverse landscapes, and relish in the cultural symphony that defines Ethiopian gastronomy.

hands-on time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine Ethiopian

Servings

Ingredients

Fresh Produce

1 large (red) onion halved and thinly sliced
1 lb carrots cut into sticks ^{[1] [2]}
1 lb green beans trimmed and sliced ^[1]
1-2 fresh green chilies (optional)

Packaged Good/Staples

Culinary Spice Kit

Turmeric, garlic, ginger, onions, basil, ajwain, cardamom, fenugreek

Suggested Proteins

1 can garbanzo beans rinsed ^[3]
fried or grilled chicken thighs or breast small strips or bite-size pieces
grilled steak
beef or chicken stew

Suggested Sides

flat bread (Ethiopian injera ^[4] recommended)
boiled potatoes
tomato salad with onions with white vinegar-vegetable oil dressing

Instructions

Heat a large POT to medium-high heat.
Add onions and 1/2 tsp salt.
Cook over medium heat for 5-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions have softened and turned slightly golden.
Add 1/4 cup of oil and fry onions for 5 minutes.
Add the carrots and Fasolia spices, cooking for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Add the green beans and garbanzo beans (optional). Cover the pot.
Continue cooking over low-medium heat for approximately 15-20 minutes until the beans and carrots are very tender, stirring occasionally.
Add salt to taste and optionally fresh green chilies.
Serve fasolia with your preferred protein and sides.

Notes

[1] Cut all vegetables into approximately 1.5-inch long sticks.

Alternative vegetables - Mix your own combination or go with one of these:

one of: green beans or green cabbage or collard greens
and one of: potatoes or carrots or beetroots
or two of: potatoes or carrots or beetroots

[2] Cut the thin part of the carrots into quarters and the thicker parts into pieces of similar thickness.

[3] Optionally, add garbanzo beans together with the green beans.

[4] From an Ethiopian store, if available, or try our shortcut recipe below.

Ethiopian Injera - Shortcut Version

Injera is best made with teff flour. This gluten-free grain is increasingly available in grocery stores with a wide product selection. Of course, Amazon has it too.

Authentic Ethiopian injera requires a long preparation time and many steps spread over several days. The baking requires a special pan dedicated only for injera and years of experience. Our shortcut recipe skips the long preparation and can be made on a regular pan. Though the spongy texture can't be reached, the use of teff flour creates an authentic flavor and is fun to eat.