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Shiro Wat – Ethiopian Chickpea Stew in Winnipeg

(53 reviews)

Shiro Wat is one of Ethiopia's most comforting and widely loved dishes — a smooth, creamy stew made from ground chickpea flour slow-simmered with berbere, onions, garlic, and spices. At Merkato Restaurant in Winnipeg, Shiro Wat is served on fresh injera and is a favourite among vegetarians, vegans, and anyone seeking a deeply satisfying, soul-warming Ethiopian dish.

Slow-simmered
Spice Level: Medium
Vegan Classic
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Shiro Wat Ethiopian chickpea stew served on injera at Merkato Restaurant in Winnipeg

About Merkato's Shiro Wat

Shiro Wat is made from ground roasted chickpeas (or broad beans), which are stirred into a seasoned broth with berbere spice blend, onions, garlic, and kibbeh or oil, and slow-simmered until the mixture reaches a thick, velvety consistency. At Merkato, the Shiro Wat is prepared daily from scratch, maintaining the rich, complex flavour that loyal customers have come to love over 20+ years.

Shiro Wat is an Ethiopian staple eaten year-round and is especially popular during religious fasting periods. Its creamy texture and warming spices make it deeply comforting. Served on injera at Merkato Winnipeg, it is a key component of the Vegetarian Combo and available as a standalone dish. The imported Ye'Teff (gluten-free) injera is available for guests with gluten sensitivities.

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

Jeff C.

Winnipeg Regular

"Merkato is my favourite restaurant in Winnipeg. Everything, from the decor and music, to the food, to the proprietress, perfectly emulates the style of a typical Ethiopian cafe. Never crowded, you won't be rushed as you select from an incredible variety of dishes. Serving sizes are large despite the inexpensive prices."

October 2012

Cannuckk

TripAdvisor Reviewer

"We were served by the friendly owner of the restaurant, and he suggested the mixed platter, which had seven different dishes (three meat and four vegetable based). Eating Ethiopian style — no utensils, just hands aided by the spongy flatbread — was a fun and unique experience. The total bill was only $50 Cdn all in, so it certainly was good value."

September 2023

Order Authentic Shiro Wat in Winnipeg

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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