Ethiopian Miser Wot (Spicy Red Lentil Stew)
A vibrant and hearty Ethiopian red lentil stew, known for its rich, spicy flavor from berbere spice and aromatic niter kibbeh. This comforting dish is perfect served with injera or rice.
Ingredients
- •1.5 cup Red lentils (rinsed thoroughly)
- •3 tbsp Niter Kibbeh (or unsalted butter/clarified butter)
- •1 medium Red onion (finely chopped)
- •4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- •1 tbsp Fresh ginger (grated)
- •3 tbsp Berbere spice blend (adjust to taste for desired heat)
- •1 tbsp Tomato paste
- •4 cup Vegetable broth
- •0.5 tsp Salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- 1.
Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
Time: 2 min - 2.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the niter kibbeh (or butter/clarified butter) over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply softened and translucent.
Time: 10 min - 3.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Time: 2 min - 4.
Stir in the berbere spice blend and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and deepen their flavor.
Time: 3 min - 5.
Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid, creating a thick stew.
Time: 20 min - 6.
Season with salt to taste. If the stew is too thick, add a little more hot water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve hot.
Time: 3 min
Tips
- 💡Miser Wot is traditionally served with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) for scooping. If injera isn't available, it's also delicious with rice or crusty bread.
- 💡For extra heat, you can add a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the garlic and ginger.
- 💡Niter Kibbeh is a spiced clarified butter crucial for authentic Ethiopian flavor. You can find recipes to make it at home, or use regular clarified butter for a similar richness.
- 💡This stew thickens as it cools. You may need to add a splash of water or broth when reheating to reach the desired consistency.
Recipe from TheCookbook.ai
Created by Ruth H