Ethiopia boasts a vibrant culinary tradition, often overlooked in discussions of vegan cuisine. This is a shame, as countless delicious and nutritious vegan dishes are staples in Ethiopian homes. One such treasure is Costa, a simple yet flavorful baby spinach dish. This vibrant green side, often served alongside injera and other hearty stews, provides a refreshing counterpoint to richer flavors. Its preparation showcases the beauty of fresh, simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. The earthy notes of the spinach are perfectly balanced with warming spices, creating a dish that is both satisfying and surprisingly complex.
Costa is incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to your taste and the ingredients readily available. Ready to experience the magic of Ethiopian cuisine? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to making your own delicious Costa (baby spinach dish).
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- Baby spinach: Generous amount
- Onion: Diced
- Garlic: Minced
- Ginger: Minced
- Coriander
- Black seed
- Korima
- Cumin
- Salt: Pinch
- Oil
- Water: Small amount
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics
- Turn on the heat and add some oil to a pan.
- Add diced onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger to the pan and sauté for a few minutes.
Step 2. Wilt the Spinach
- Add a generous amount of baby spinach (it shrinks significantly during cooking).
- Add a small amount of water.
Step 3. Season and Simmer
- Season with coriander, black seed, korima, cumin, and a pinch of salt (adjust salt to taste).
Read more: Ethiopian Kikel Kikil: Vegan Vegetable Stew Recipe
Tips
- Use a generous amount of baby spinach as it reduces in size during cooking.
- Frozen spinach can be used as a substitute for fresh baby spinach.
- Feel free to experiment with other greens in place of baby spinach.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of spinach instead of baby spinach?
Yes, you can use regular spinach, but you may need to adjust cooking time as it's usually a bit tougher. Be sure to thoroughly wilt it.
2. What if I don't have berbere spice? Can I substitute?
While berbere is key to the authentic flavor, you can substitute with a blend of paprika, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne for a similar warmth. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
3. How can I make this dish spicier or milder?
For spicier Costa, add more berbere or cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the amount of berbere or omit the cayenne entirely. You can also adjust the amount of chili powder in your substitute blend.
Enjoy your freshly prepared Ethiopian Vegan Costa! This simple yet flavorful dish is a perfect addition to any meal, offering a burst of freshness and a taste of Ethiopian culinary tradition. With a little practice, you'll be making this delicious side dish time and time again.