🇪🇹 Ethiopia · Food
Gomen Alicha
By eatmundo · September 8, 2026
🇪🇹 ETAI-generated imageA mild and nutritious Ethiopian dish made from lightly sautéed collard greens. It relies on the subtle flavors of ginger, garlic, and fresh peppers, making it a perfect side dish for heavier, spicier wats.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Wash 500g of collard greens thoroughly, remove the thick stems, and chop the leaves into 2cm wide strips.
- 2
Finely dice 1 onion and sauté it in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until soft, about 7 minutes.
- 3
Add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of grated ginger, and 1 thinly sliced jalapeno to the onion, cooking for 2 minutes to release the aromatic oils.
- 4
Add the collard greens to the skillet in batches, tossing until they wilt down slightly, which should take about 3 minutes.
- 5
Pour in 50ml of water, cover the skillet, and steam the greens on low heat for 15-20 minutes, ensuring they remain vibrant green rather than turning olive-colored.
- 6
Remove the lid, stir well to let any excess moisture evaporate, and add 1 teaspoon of salt to taste.
- 7
Serve warm; the greens should be tender but still hold a slight texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gomen Alicha?+
Gomen Alicha is a staple Ethiopian side dish consisting of collard greens braised with onion, garlic, ginger, and chili. It is a mild, vegetable-focused dish that serves as a healthy balance to heartier meat stews.
Can I use kale instead of collard greens?+
Yes, kale is a common substitute, but it may require slightly less cooking time as it tends to be softer than collard greens.
How do I keep the greens bright green?+
Do not overcook them; steaming them just until tender is key to maintaining their vibrant color and nutritional value.
Is Gomen Alicha spicy?+
Only very mildly if you include the jalapeno, but the dish is essentially flavor-focused rather than heat-focused.
What does Gomen mean?+
Gomen refers to greens, specifically collard greens in the context of Ethiopian cuisine.
🇪🇹 ETAI-generated image
