Ga'at (Ethiopian Breakfast Porridge)
Ga'at is a traditional Ethiopian breakfast porridge, known for its thick, stiff texture. It's typically served with a flavorful, spicy dipping sauce. This vegan version uses a spiced oil blend for dipping.
An original recipe by Forkin
- Total time
- 40 min
- Serves
- 4
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Per serving
- 348 kcal
Allergen information: may contain gluten. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
porridge
- 3.5 cupwater
- 0.5 tspsalt
- 2 cupbarley flour
dipping sauce
- 0.25 cupvegetable oil
- 2 tbspberbere spice blend
- 1 clovegarlic, minced
Equipment
large pot · wooden spoon · small saucepan · whisk · serving platter
The method
Step by step
- 1
Bring the water and salt to a boil in a large pot over high heat.
About 5 min
- 2
Gradually add the barley flour to the boiling water, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or whisk to prevent lumps.
About 3 min
Cook’s note: Adding the flour slowly helps create a smooth porridge.
- 3
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the porridge is very thick and stiff.
About 25 min
Cook’s note: The porridge should be firm enough to hold its shape.
- 4
While the porridge simmers, prepare the dipping sauce: heat the vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
About 1 min
- 5
Add the berbere spice blend and minced garlic to the hot oil and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Be careful not to burn the spices or garlic.
- 6
Remove the spiced oil from the heat.
- 7
Once the porridge is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter or individual bowls, shaping it into a mound with a well in the center using the back of a spoon.
About 2 min
- 8
Pour the spiced oil into the well of the porridge.
Cook’s note: Serve immediately and enjoy by scooping the porridge with a piece of flatbread or a spoon, dipping it into the spiced oil.
Per serving
Nutrition
- Calories
- 347.8kcal
- Protein
- 6.8g
- Carbs
- 42.9g
- Fat
- 15.6g
- Fibre
- 7.1g
- Sugar
- 0.9g
Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.
Keep it good
Store leftover ga'at and dipping sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Reheat ga'at gently in a microwave with a splash of water, stirring until warmed through. Reheat sauce in a small pan over low heat.
More recipes
All recipesmain course
Bosanski Lonac
A hearty, slow-cooked Bosnian stew featuring layers of mixed meats and chunky vegetables. This one-pot meal simmers for hours, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich and savory broth. It is a traditional and comforting dish, perfect for colder weather.
3 hr 40 min 656 kcaldessert
Orange Slice Bar Cookies
A wonderfully chewy and dense bar cookie packed with sweet, candied orange slices and crunchy pecans. These simple-to-make bars are baked in a single pan and offer a delightful citrus flavor in every bite. They are cut into squares, similar to a brownie or blondie.
1 hr 5 min 145 kcalappetizer
Choros A La Chalaca
A classic Peruvian appetizer featuring steamed mussels on the half shell. They are topped with a zesty, fresh salsa made from onion, tomato, corn, chili, and lime, known as salsa chalaca.
45 min 255 kcalmain course
Sopa de Lima
A traditional Mayan chicken and lime soup from Yucatán, Mexico. This bright and flavorful soup features tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a distinct citrusy broth, often served with crispy tortilla strips.
1 hr 10 min 617 kcalmain course
Peruvian Quinoa Stew
This hearty vegan stew features quinoa and a vibrant blend of vegetables in a savory broth. A traditional Peruvian sofrito forms the flavorful base, making for a comforting and nutritious meal. It's perfect for a satisfying dinner.
55 min 358 kcalmain course
Katsudon
Experience the ultimate Japanese comfort food with Katsudon, a deeply satisfying rice bowl featuring a crispy, golden-fried pork cutlet. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures: tender pork, fluffy egg, and sweet, savory onions, all simmered in an umami-rich dashi sauce and served over warm, steamy rice. This classic dish is a true celebration of flavor and texture.
55 min 1,301 kcalappetizer
Sciatt (Buckwheat Fritters)
Sciatt are crispy, savory buckwheat fritters filled with molten cheese, a traditional appetizer from Italy's Valtellina region. They are typically served with a fresh salad to balance their richness. This recipe offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
35 min 520 kcal