Ethiopian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and unique spice blends, and this recipe for Awaze Yellow Squash & Zucchini showcases the best of it. Awaze, a rich berbere-based sauce, elevates the humble squash and zucchini into a sophisticated and deeply satisfying dish. Imagine tender summer vegetables infused with the warm, earthy notes of awaze, a tantalizing dance of spice and savory richness. This recipe is perfect for a light yet flavorful weeknight meal or as a vibrant side dish at your next gathering.
This simple yet elegant recipe combines the sweetness of yellow squash and zucchini with the complex depths of awaze. We’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the vegetables to creating the perfect awaze sauce, ensuring a delicious and authentic Ethiopian culinary experience. Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Yellow Squash
- Zucchini
- Awaze (Ethiopian spice blend)
- Other vegetables (optional)
- Oil
- Onions
- Garlic
- Spices (as needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Wash and chop the yellow squash and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Chop onions and garlic.
Step 2. Sauté Vegetables
- Heat oil in a pan. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add the yellow squash and zucchini to the pan. Stir well and cook until tender-crisp, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3. Season and Simmer
- Season with awaze and other spices to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot as a side dish or as part of a larger Ethiopian meal.
Read more: Southern Fried Collard Greens: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of awaze to your preferred spice level. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers, to the dish.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a little bit of butter or clarified butter (ghee) at the end of cooking.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies
- Fat: variesg
- Carbs: variesg
- Protein: variesg
FAQs
1. Can I substitute other vegetables for the squash and zucchini?
Yes! Other summer vegetables like yellow squash, green beans, or eggplant would work well. Keep in mind cooking times may vary.
2. Where can I find Awaze paste?
Awaze paste can be found in many African or international grocery stores. You can also find it online or make your own using a berbere spice base and other ingredients.
3. Is this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian. To ensure it's vegan, check that your Awaze paste doesn't contain any animal products like honey.
This Ethiopian Yellow Squash & Zucchini Awaze recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes, showcasing the vibrant flavors of Ethiopian cuisine in a simple, accessible way. Enjoy the satisfying warmth of the awaze sauce and the tender sweetness of the vegetables – a perfect dish for any occasion. We hope you savor every bite of this flavorful and unforgettable meal!