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Ethiopian Misir Wot

Yields1 ServingPrep Time15 minsCook Time45 minsTotal Time1 hr

Red-lentil stew simmered with spicy berbere, aromatics, tomato, and niter kibbeh.

Ethiopian Misir Wot

Ingredients
 2 cups split red lentils, rinsed
 3 tbsp niter kibbeh or vegetable oil
 1 large red onion, finely diced
 4 cloves garlic, minced
 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
 3 tbsp berbere spice, divided
 2 tbsp tomato paste
 1 cup crushed tomatoes
 5 cups vegetable stock or water
 1 tsp fine salt
 ½ tsp ground black cardamom or korarima
 ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
 6 pieces of injera, for serving
Directions
1

Rinse the lentils in a fine sieve until the water runs mostly clear, then drain well. This removes excess starch and helps the stew cook evenly.

2

Melt 2 tablespoons niter kibbeh in a heavy pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often, until soft and lightly golden.

3

Stir in the garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Add 2 tablespoons berbere, the cardamom, and cinnamon, and toast for another 30 seconds until fragrant without letting the spices scorch.

4

Add the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture darkens slightly and the fat begins to glisten at the edges.

5

Stir in the lentils and 4 cups stock. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 25 minutes.

6

Stir every 5 to 7 minutes so the lentils do not catch on the bottom. Add the remaining stock as needed to maintain a thick, spoonable stew.

7

When the lentils are completely tender, stir in the remaining niter kibbeh, berbere, and salt. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes until creamy and richly colored.

8

Taste and adjust the seasoning. Rest for 5 minutes so the flavors settle, then serve warm with injera for scooping.

Notes

Berbere blends vary in heat, so begin with 2 tablespoons and add more near the end. Vegetable oil can replace niter kibbeh for a vegan version.

Nutrition Facts

0 servings

Serving size

1 1/4 cups

Amount per serving
Calories360
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 10g13%

Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 12mg4%
Sodium 620mg27%
Protein 18g

* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.