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Misir Wot: Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew

Misir Wot: Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew

Krysta
A deeply flavorful and spicy Ethiopian red lentil stew, essential for a vegetarian combination platter and enjoyed with injera bread. This dish highlights the rich aromas of berbere spice and comforting red lentils.
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup red lentils rinsed
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger grated
  • 2 tablespoons berbere spice mix adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup niter kibbeh or vegetable oil for vegan
  • 3 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the niter kibbeh (or vegetable oil) over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Do not brown.
  • Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Stir in the berbere spice mix. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aroma. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of broth.
  • Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot and stir to coat them with the spice mixture.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Stir in the salt and adjust seasoning as needed. If the stew is too thick, add a little more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Serve the Misir Wot hot, traditionally with injera bread, as part of an Ethiopian vegetarian platter or as a hearty main dish.

Notes

For a truly authentic flavor, use homemade berbere spice and niter kibbeh (spiced clarified butter). For a vegan version, substitute niter kibbeh with vegetable oil. Misir Wot is traditionally served with injera, a spongy Ethiopian flatbread, and is a key component of a Yetsom Beyaynetu (vegetarian combination platter). It pairs well with other Ethiopian vegetable dishes.
Keyword Misir Wot, Ethiopian, red lentil stew, berbere, vegan, vegetarian, lentil recipe, African food, spicy stew