Ethiopian Gomen Besiga: Pressure Cooker Lamb & Kale Recipe

Gomen Besiga, a beloved Ethiopian stew, is a vibrant and flavorful dish showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the country. This hearty lamb and kale stew, simmered to perfection, offers a delightful balance of tender meat, earthy kale, and a complex blend of spices. The fragrant berbere spice blend, a cornerstone of Ethiopian cuisine, lends its signature warmth and depth, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Its robust flavors are complemented by the subtle sweetness of onions and the gentle acidity often added through tomatoes or lemon juice.

Prepare to be transported to the bustling markets and vibrant kitchens of Ethiopia as we guide you through a simplified yet authentic recipe for Gomen Besiga, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Follow our step-by-step instructions to create this delicious stew, mastering the art of Ethiopian cooking in your own home.

Tools Needed

  • Pressure cooker
  • Saute pan

Ingredients

  • Lamb: 2 pounds
  • Kale or collard greens
  • Onions
  • Rosemary
  • Sea salt
  • Black pepper
  • Cayenne pepper: a little bit
  • Paprika
  • Other spices
  • Injera

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Season Lamb

  • Chop up the lamb into smaller pieces.
  • Chop up the kale or collard greens.
  • Sauté the onions until softened. This is the only time you'll use oil/butter.
  • Add the lamb to the pot along with rosemary, sea salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, and other spices to taste.
Chop up the lamb into smaller pieces.Chop up the kale or collard greens.Sauté the onions until softened. This is the only time you'll use oil/butter.Add the lamb to the pot along with rosemary, sea salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, and other spices to taste.
Prepare Ingredients & Season Lamb

Step 2. Pressure Cook the Lamb and Kale

  • Add the kale or collard greens to the pressure cooker.
  • Pressure cook for 15 minutes.
Add the kale or collard greens to the pressure cooker.Pressure cook for 15 minutes.
Pressure Cook the Lamb and Kale

Step 3. Natural Pressure Release & Rest

  • After pressure cooking, let it rest before opening.
After pressure cooking, let it rest before opening.
Natural Pressure Release & Rest

Step 4. Serve

  • Serve with injera bread.
Serve with injera bread.
Serve

Read more: Ethiopian Tofu Stir-Fry: A Flavorful & Vegan Recipe

Tips

  • Adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
  • Be careful when opening the pressure cooker, as it can be dangerous.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat in Gomen Besiga?

Yes! While lamb is traditional, you can substitute with beef, goat, or even chicken. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the meat's toughness.

2. What if I don't have berbere spice blend?

You can make a simple substitute using a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, cumin, coriander, and a pinch of allspice. Adjust the amounts to your spice preference.

3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?

Replace the lamb with hearty vegetables like chickpeas, potatoes, or lentils. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of lamb stock.


Enjoy your delicious and authentic Ethiopian Gomen Besiga! This pressure cooker recipe makes a flavorful and hearty meal with minimal effort. Serve it with injera bread for a truly immersive culinary experience.