Description
This Vegan Ethiopian Red Lentils (Misir Wat) recipe offers a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender red lentils simmered in a fragrant blend of berbere spice, tomatoes, and garlic. Perfect as a comforting main or side, this traditional Ethiopian stew is vegan, packed with nutrients, and pairs wonderfully with flatbread.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil*
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons berbere spice
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 – 1/2 cup water
- Sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, chopped tomato, tomato paste, and 1 tablespoon of berbere spice. Stir together and cook for an additional minute to blend the flavors.
- Simmer Lentils: Add the red lentils, vegetable broth, 1/4 cup of water, and a pinch of sea salt to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook gently for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and tender.
- Finish the Stew: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of berbere. If the stew is too thick, add more water gradually to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt as needed.
- Serve: Serve the Misir Wat immediately with your choice of flatbread, such as injera, to soak up the rich flavors.
Notes
- The amount of water can be adjusted to achieve a thicker or more stew-like consistency.
- Berbere spice mix can be found in specialty stores or made at home with a blend of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and other warm spices.
- Use a good-quality vegetable broth for enhanced flavor.
- This dish pairs best with traditional Ethiopian injera but can also be enjoyed with any flatbread or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Ethiopian