Misir Wat
Misir wat is one of the most widespread stews in Ethiopian cuisine, a simple red lentil dish transformed by berbere spice into a rich, complex and deeply satisfying meal. Lentils, cultivated widely across the Ethiopian highlands for centuries, have long been an essential protein source accessible to all social classes. Like shiro wat, misir wat is a staple fasting dish during the abstinence periods mandated by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, but it remains popular outside those periods too, thanks to its affordable price and short cooking time. It's almost always served alongside other, milder stews on the same platter of injera, the contrast of flavors being an essential part of the traditional Ethiopian meal.
Red lentils
Red lentils cook quickly and break down into a thick, creamy texture.
Generous berbere
Berbere spice blend gives the stew its deep red color and signature intense heat.
Caramelized onion
Slowly cooked, nearly melted onion forms the sweet-savory base of the stew.
Vegan and gluten-free
A traditional fasting dish, entirely plant-based and gluten-free, rich in plant protein.
Ingredients 4 servings
- 2 cups red lentils
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 4 tbsp oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 3-4 tbsp berbere
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Injera, for serving
How to make it
- 1RINSE THE LENTILS: Rinse the red lentils under cold water until it runs clear, then drain.
- 2SAUTÉ THE ONION: Heat the oil and sauté the onion over low heat 15-20 minutes, stirring often, until soft and golden.
- 3ADD AROMATICS: Add garlic and ginger, cooking 2 more minutes.
- 4ADD BERBERE: Sprinkle in berbere and tomato paste, mixing well and letting it toast 1-2 minutes.
- 5ADD THE LENTILS: Add the drained lentils to the pan, stirring to coat with the onion and spice mixture.
- 6POUR THE LIQUID: Add the water or broth gradually, stirring constantly.
- 7SIMMER: Let simmer gently 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils fully soften and the stew thickens.
- 8SERVE: Salt to taste and serve hot, with injera.
Nutritional info
per serving (~400 ml)
Estimated nutritional values.
Pairs perfectly with
