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Eithio Bites • Recipe

Misir Wot (Berbere Lentil Stew)

Cozy, spicy, and ridiculously satisfying — a one-pot lentil stew with big Ethiopian flavor that’s perfect for weeknights.

VeganOne-PotSpicyWeeknight
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
35 minutes
Serves
4
Difficulty
Easy
Misir Wot
IngredientsInstructionsBack to Blog

Quick Story

What this is, why it’s great, and what to expect

Misir wot is one of those “how is this so simple?” recipes. It’s hearty, naturally vegan, and built on a slow-cooked onion base that gives it that deep, cozy flavor.

The star is berbere — a warm Ethiopian spice blend that can be mild or fiery depending on the brand. Start with less, taste, and build.

Pro tip: This tastes even better the next day. If you’re meal-prepping, misir wot is basically cheating.

Ingredients

Everything you need (simple + pantry friendly)

Red lentils1 1/2 cups, rinsed
Yellow onions2 large, finely diced
Garlic4 cloves, minced
Ginger1 tbsp, grated
Berbere spice2–3 tbsp (start with 2 if you’re spice-shy)
Tomato paste2 tbsp
Vegetable broth or water3 1/2 cups
Niter kibbeh (optional)1–2 tbsp (use olive oil for vegan)
Olive oil2 tbsp
Salt + lemonto taste (finish with a squeeze of lemon)

Instructions

Step-by-step (no guesswork)

1
Build the baseCook onions on medium-low with oil (and niter kibbeh if using) until soft and golden — don’t rush this part.
2
Bloom the spicesAdd garlic and ginger for 30 seconds, then stir in berbere and tomato paste. Cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3
Simmer the lentilsAdd lentils and broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for ~20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4
Adjust textureAdd a splash of water if it gets too thick. You want it spoonable, not cement.
5
Finish + serveSalt to taste and finish with lemon. Serve with injera, rice, or warm flatbread.

Notes

Small details that make a big difference

Heat control

Berbere varies a lot by brand. Start lighter, taste, then add more.

Meal prep

Holds up 3–4 days in the fridge and reheats really well.

Serve with

Injera is the classic, but rice or warm flatbread works too.

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