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Cozy One-Pot Misir Wot Red Lentil Stew

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A flavorful and comforting Ethiopian red lentil stew made with berbere spices, onions, garlic, and simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for cozy evenings and easy enough for beginners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (about 200 grams) red lentils, rinsed well
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons berbere spice blend (or substitute with smoked paprika, cayenne, and ground fenugreek)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 3 cups (720 ml) vegetable broth or water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced butter)
  • Salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
  • Optional: chopped tomatoes for a chunkier texture
  • Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth

Instructions

  1. Rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear and set aside.
  2. Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the fresh ginger.
  3. Heat olive oil or niter kibbeh in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until shimmering.
  4. Add the chopped onions and sauté gently for 8-10 minutes until soft, translucent, and starting to caramelize.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Add the berbere spice blend and stir continuously for about 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  7. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to blend with the spices and aromatics.
  8. Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth or water, stirring to combine and submerge the lentils.
  9. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add water or broth if the stew becomes too thick.
  10. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  11. Stir in lemon juice just before serving.
  12. Optional: garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.

Notes

Blooming the berbere spice in oil is essential for full flavor. Slow cooking the onions until caramelized adds sweetness and depth. Stir frequently during simmering to prevent sticking. Adjust thickness by partially covering the pot or adding liquid. For less heat, reduce berbere spice and add cinnamon or smoked paprika. Optional coconut milk can be added near the end for creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Misir Wot, red lentil stew, Ethiopian stew, one-pot meal, vegan, gluten-free, comfort food, berbere spice

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/cozy-one-pot-misir-wot-red-lentil-stew-easy-recipe-for-beginners/