Spicy Ethiopian Lentil Stew: A Vegan Misir Wot Adventure
Try something new they say… with this Spicy Ethiopian Lentil Stew, a vibrant and hearty dish that encapsulates the essence of traditional Ethiopian cuisine. This vegan Misir Wot recipe features an aromatic blend of spices and hearty lentils, making it a perfect comfort food that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
An Ethiopian Inspiration!
This dish is inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Ethiopia, where spices meet simplicity to create deeply flavorful meals. Misir Wot, a staple lentil stew, is reimagined here with vegan ingredients, maintaining authentic flavors like the iconic Berbere spice mix while ensuring the stew remains accessible to plant-based diets.
Why You’ll Love It
- Robust Flavors: The Berbere spice blend offers a warm, spicy kick that transforms simple lentils into an exotic stew.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein-rich lentils and fiber, this stew is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Easy to Prepare: Despite its complex flavors, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it perfect for any day of the week.
- Versatility: Serve it with traditional injera, over rice, or with flatbread to soak up the rich, spicy sauce.
Quick Grocery List
For the Stew Base:
- Olive oil
- Yellow onion
- Garlic
- Ginger
Spice Blend:
- Berbere spice
- Smoked paprika
- Ground cumin
Lentils:
- Red lentils
- Tomato paste
Things to Consider Before Preparing Your Meal
- Prep & Cook Time: Total 50 minutes (15 mins prep, 35 mins cook).
- Equipment Checklist: Medium pot, wooden spoon, cutting board, knife.
- Dietary Adjustments: Fully vegan and can be made gluten-free if needed.
- Serving Size: Serves 4–6, perfect for a family meal or meal prep for the week.
- General Notes: Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of Berbere spice to suit your taste.
Easy Berbere-Spiced Ethiopian Lentil Stew – Vegan Misir Wot Recipe with Bold Flavors and Plant-Based Protein
DifficultyEasy
Servings4–6
Prep time15 minutes
Cook time35 minutes
Total time50 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Stew Base:
- 1 tbsp neutral oil, (sunflower, canola, or avocado)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
For the Spice Blend:
- 1 ½ tbsp berbere spice blend, (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika, (optional, for added depth)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp Salt, to taste
For the Lentils:
- 1 cup red lentils, (rinsed thoroughly)
- 3 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Lemon wedges
- Injera or rice, for serving
Let's Get Cooking!
Instructions:
- 1
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat oil in a medium pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring often, until soft and slightly browned.
- Add garlic and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 2
2. Toast the Spices
- Stir in berbere spice, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using).
- Toast for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to activate the spices without burning.
- 3
3. Cook the Lentils
- Add rinsed lentils, water (or broth), tomato paste, and salt.
- Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 20–25 minutes until lentils are tender and stew is thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 4
4. Finish & Serve
- Taste and adjust salt or spice level as needed.
- Serve warm with injera, flatbread, or rice. Garnish with herbs and lemon if desired.
Equipment
Nutrition
| Calories | 220 |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Protein | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 310mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 5g |
Substitutions
- Lentils: Yellow lentils or split peas can be used for a different texture and flavor.
- Berbere Spice: If unavailable, mix chili powder, paprika, cumin, and a pinch of cinnamon as a substitute.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Throw in some diced sweet potatoes or carrots for extra nutrition and sweetness.
- Protein Boost: Include chunks of tempeh or tofu for a protein-packed vegan meal.
Let’s Get Cooking
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Lentil Stew:
- Spice It Right: Start with less Berbere spice and adjust as it cooks to find your perfect spice level.
- Consistency Matters: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add broth as needed for your desired thickness.
- Layer Flavors: Build the stew’s flavors by sautéing onions until golden before adding spices.
Art Of
Mastering Misir Wot involves balancing the spices and cooking times to maximize flavor. The slow simmering of lentils with Berbere creates a complexity that is traditionally loved and globally embraced.
Tips and Variations
- Custom Spice Blend: Toast and grind your own spices for a fresher, more potent Berbere.
- Slow Cook Perfection: Consider using a slow cooker for even deeper flavor development.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 — A lighter stew that’s full of flavor.
- Carbohydrates: 28g — Energizing, primarily from lentils, a healthy carb source.
- Protein: 11g — High in plant-based protein, ideal for muscle repair and growth.
- Fiber: 7g — Excellent for digestive health.
- Fat: 6g — Mostly healthy fats, crucial for nutrient absorption.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing Tips: Cool completely and store in an airtight container to keep fresh.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove, adding a little water or broth to maintain moisture.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for a quick and easy reheatable meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How can I make this stew if I don’t have Berbere spice?
A: Combine chili powder, paprika, cumin, and a hint of cinnamon to create a homemade mix that closely mimics the taste of Berbere.
Q: What are some tips for achieving the perfect texture with red lentils?
A: Keep an eye on the lentils as they cook; they should be tender but not mushy, adding broth as necessary to prevent drying out.
Engage and Share!
Tried this recipe? We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos and thoughts on this Ethiopian Lentil Stew in the comments below or on social media. Looking for more vegan delights? Check out our other plant-based recipes for more inspiration and culinary adventures!
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Hey, I’m Michael from SpatulaDaddy! My kitchen’s my happy place, sharing easy, tasty recipes with California freshness, Ozark comfort, and flavors from my travels. Expect healthy & delicious food for everyone. Let’s get cooking!
