Heat vegetable oil with the whole cloves over low heat.

When hot, add the onions & garlic & saute, stirring occasionally, for a few moments. Add the carrots & potatoes & continue to saute for 5 minutes, stir to prevent sticking. Add the green beans & saute for just a few more minutes.

Slowly stir in the coconut milk. Use only as much as you need to create a thick sauce: the vegetables should not be swimming in milk. Carefully bring to a boil, reduce heat & simmer until the vegetables are cooked, 15 to 20 minutes.

Stir occasionally otherwise the milk & vegetables will burn. Garnish with cilantro.

Serve with an Ethiopian Lentil stew or with an Indian dal to mix cuisines, & bread. If you prefer the vegetables to be hotter, add more berbere.