Origin Ethiopia
Ethiopian Lentil Stew also known as Misir Wat is a warm comforting dish made with red lentils onion garlic and mild spices. The stew is thick soft and full of flavor. People in Ethiopia enjoy this dish with flatbread called injera or with rice. It is filling healthy and easy to make at home.
This recipe is written in very easy English so anyone can follow the steps and cook a tasty Ethiopian lentil stew without stress.
What Is Ethiopian Lentil Stew
Ethiopian lentil stew is made with
- red lentils
- onion
- garlic
- spices
- oil
The lentils cook until very soft and create a thick smooth stew.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Stew
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves chopped
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Half teaspoon turmeric
- Half teaspoon paprika
- Half teaspoon cumin
- Half teaspoon salt
- Half teaspoon pepper
- 3 cups water
For Serving
- Flatbread or rice
- Lemon wedge optional
Step by Step Method to Make Ethiopian Lentil Stew
Step 1
Prepare the Lentils
- Wash the red lentils well.
- Drain the water and keep aside.
Step 2
Cook the Onion and Garlic
- Heat oil in a pot.
- Add chopped onion.
- Cook on low heat until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for one minute.
This step builds the base flavor.
Step 3
Add Spices
- Add turmeric paprika cumin salt and pepper.
- Mix well and cook for one minute.
The spices should smell warm not burnt.
Step 4
Add Lentils and Water
- Add washed lentils to the pot.
- Add water and mix gently.
- Bring to a light boil.
- Reduce heat and cook for fifteen to twenty minutes.
The lentils should become very soft.
Step 5
Adjust Texture
- Stir the stew.
- Add more water if it becomes too thick.
- Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the lentil stew hot with
- injera
- rice
- flatbread
You can add a squeeze of lemon for fresh taste.
Tips for Perfect Lentil Stew
- Use red lentils for soft texture
- Cook on low heat
- Stir often to avoid sticking
- Add water slowly
- Do not over spice
Variations You Can Try
- Add tomato for more color
- Add chilli for spicy version
- Add spinach for freshness
- Add butter for richer taste
Approximate Nutrition per Serving
Values may vary
- Calories 220 to 300
- Carbohydrates 35g
- Protein 12g
- Fat 6g