Ethiopian Beef Lentil Spicy Stew | Siga Misir Key Wot

berbere spice

🥗Healthier: cayenne pepper + paprika

💰Cheaper: chili powder

Cayenne and paprika mimic the heat and depth of berbere.

beef

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork

Chicken offers lower fat content; pork is often less expensive.

red lentils

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: split peas

Green lentils are nutritious and can be more affordable.

injera

🥗Healthier: whole grain flatbread

💰Cheaper: tortillas

Whole grain flatbreads provide similar texture and flavor.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add beef pieces and brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.

Sprinkle in berbere spice and cook for 2-3 minutes to release flavors.

Mix in tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Pour in water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Add red lentils and season with salt and black pepper.

Cover and simmer until lentils are tender and beef is cooked through, about 30-40 minutes.

Stir occasionally, adding more water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Once cooked, adjust seasoning and stir in fresh cilantro and lemon juice before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: