When it comes to discovering new recipes, I'm always the first to volunteer. Cooking is more than just preparing meals—it's a journey through culture, memory, and taste.

And, let's face it, since hopping on a plane to explore new cuisines isn't always an option, the next best thing is bringing those flavors into your own kitchen. Right?

Anyway, one of the dishes that instantly intrigued me was Doro Wat, a rich and spiced Ethiopian chicken stew known for its bold flavor and comforting warmth. After reading a book by an African cook, I was inspired to explore East African flavors further. But when I started looking for ingredients, I quickly realized that some of them—like niter kibbeh (spiced clarified butter) and berbere spice mix—weren't readily available in Romanian stores. So, I did what many home cooks do best: I improvised.

Therefore, this version of Ethiopian Doro Wat is not the traditional recipe, but it's a loving and aromatic adaptation that stays true to the soul of the dish.

It's perfect for cozy dinners, rainy weekends, or when you just want something deeply flavorful and a bit different from your everyday meals. With bold spices, slow-cooked onions, and tender chicken, this stew hits all the right notes.

So, let's dive in and learn how to cook Ethiopian Wat at home—our way.

Preparing the Spice Blend (Alternative to Niter Kibbeh)

Start by grinding the following spices in a spice grinder:

• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 cardamom pod
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 1 whole clove
• 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves (methi), crumbled
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp dried garlic flakes or powder

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Set this blend aside—it will act as a stand-in for the traditional kibbeh butter.

Prepping the Chicken and Onion Base

• Clean the chicken. I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but if you prefer the traditional version with bones and skin, go for it.
• Place chicken in a bowl, squeeze over the lime juice, add the lime shells, sprinkle salt, and cover with water.

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• Let it sit for 30 minutes.
• Meanwhile, chop the red onions and pulse them in a food processor until they turn into a paste.
• Transfer the onion paste to a large, thick-bottomed pot or cast iron pon. Cook on medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes until all the moisture evaporates.
• Add the grapeseed oil and stir.

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• Cook for another 30–45 minutes on low, stirring occasionally.

Layering the Spices and Stewing the Chicken

• Drain the chicken and discard the limes. Grate the garlic cloves and fresh ginger directly over the chicken.

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• Add water, cover, and let it marinate for 15–25 minutes.
• Back to the onion pot: add the spice mix you prepared earlier and stir for 5 minutes.
• Add berbere spice blend and cook for 15 minutes more.

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Note: If you don't have a store-bought berbere, you can make your own using:

• 1.5 tbsp sweet paprika
• 0.5 tbsp hot paprika
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp ginger powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp nigella seeds
• ½ tsp dried basil

We add the two spice blends separately because the homemade mix mimics the flavor base of niter kibbeh, while the berbere adds heat and a different layer of depth.

• Stir in the ghee and cook for 3 more minutes.
• Add the marinated chicken with its liquid.

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• Cover with a lid and simmer on low for 1 hour.
• After an hour, remove the lid and simmer for another 20–30 minutes or until the sauce thickens.

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• Hard boil 2 eggs. Prick them gently with a toothpick and add them to the stew.

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• Simmer everything together for 5 more minutes.
• Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Traditionally, this dish is served with injera (a fermented flatbread) and a soft cheese called Ayib. However, since we can't find them in Romania, we love serving them with flatbread, basmati rice, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.

How to Make Doro Wat in a Slow Cooker

To make a doro wat slow cooker version, prepare the onion-spice base on the stove as described, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the marinated chicken and liquid.

Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. Add boiled eggs in the last 30 minutes. The result is just as comforting and packed with flavor.

History, Influence & Our Adaptation

Okay, now let's turn our attention towards the history of this amazing stew.

So, the original Ethiopian Doro Wat recipe is rooted in festive and religious traditions. It is often served during holidays and special occasions and holds deep cultural meaning, particularly in Orthodox Ethiopian households where it's often served after fasting periods.

Its richness comes from berbere spice and niter kibbeh, which give the dish its signature aroma and heat. And if you are wondering, yes, these spice blends date back centuries and reflect Ethiopia's culinary landscape shaped by trade routes and diverse regional cultures.

Anyway, we adapted this dish using pantry staples and homemade spice blends to make it accessible for anyone craving deep, soulful flavors—without the need for a specialty store.

So, whether you're new to Ethiopian chicken dishes or simply looking for something new to try, this adaptation is worth a place at your table.

Nutrition & Serving Tips

Wondering about doro wat calories? A standard portion with rice and egg has about 800-900 calories, depending on your fat source and serving size. However, it's a protein-rich, low-carb-friendly dish if served without flatbread.

FAQ

Q: Is Doro Wat healthy?

A: Yes—packed with lean protein and anti-inflammatory spices. Just keep the oil in check.

Q: Why is Doro Wat popular?

A: Its rich history, bold flavor, and role in Ethiopian tradition make it a national favorite.

Q: Can you freeze Doro Wat?

A: Absolutely! Freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just freeze it without the eggs.

Q: How to eat Doro Wat?

A: Traditionally with injera, but rice, flatbread, or even couscous work beautifully.

Q: When was Doro Wat invented?

A: Its origins date back several hundred years, tied to Ethiopia's Orthodox Christian fasting practices and celebratory meals.

Conclusion

I hope you give this bold and comforting stew a try. It's a labor of love but one that's worth every step. If you do, tag us and let us know how it turned out—we'd love to see your version!

The full recipe video is now available on our YouTube channel, so check it out, and don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe so you never miss a flavor-packed adventure.

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