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Ater Aletcha Wat – Mild Ethiopian Yellow Split Pea Stew in Winnipeg

(52 reviews)

Merkato Restaurant's Ater Aletcha Wat is a comforting, naturally vegan Ethiopian classic — mild yellow split peas slow-simmered with turmeric, onion, garlic, and ginger until smooth and golden. Gently spiced and wholesome, it is a favourite among vegetarians, vegans, and anyone exploring Ethiopian cuisine for the first time.

Slow-simmered
Spice Level: Mild
Vegan Friendly
Ater Aletcha Wat mild Ethiopian yellow split pea stew served on injera at Merkato Restaurant in Winnipeg

About Merkato's Ater Aletcha Wat

Ater Aletcha Wat is one of the cornerstones of Ethiopian vegetarian cooking — a mild, turmeric-tinted stew of yellow split peas gently cooked with caramelized onions, garlic, and fresh ginger. Unlike the fiery berbere-based wots, "aletcha" dishes are deliberately mild, letting the natural earthiness of the legumes and the warmth of turmeric shine through. At Merkato, it is simmered slowly until creamy and rich.

Served on a generous bed of fresh injera flatbread, Merkato's Ater Aletcha Wat is completely plant-based and naturally gluten-free when paired with our imported teff injera. It is a staple of the Ethiopian fasting tradition and a beloved comfort food — nourishing, satisfying, and perfect on its own or as part of a vegetarian combination.

What Customers Say About Merkato Restaurant

Danielle D.

TripAdvisor Reviewer

"Sam, the owner, treats us like we are family. He wants to make sure we enjoy the food. And we ALWAYS do! He will customize food to make sure we enjoy it! The portions are great! Prices are reasonable. You can taste the richness! It's a delight."

August 2024

Erin K.

Winnipeg Regular

"I usually get the vegetarian combo and my partner gets the meat combo and both are delicious, with plenty of injera. I'll always keep coming back to Merkato for quality, price, and speed of service."

October 2015

Isbellina

TripAdvisor Reviewer

"The setting is humble but the food is great. And the service is friendly. Family owned and operated. If you want vegan you never have to worry about going hungry."

March 2014

Try Winnipeg's Best Ater Aletcha Wat

Order online for pickup or dine-in at 352 Cumberland Ave, Winnipeg

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Find Us in Winnipeg

Merkato Restaurant

Address:
352 Cumberland Ave
Winnipeg, MB R3B 1T3, Canada

Phone:
+1 204-947-9802

Hours:

  • Monday: 1 PM – 12 AM
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday – Sunday: 1 PM – 12 AM
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