Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew Misir Wot in Instant Pot

berbere spice

🥗Healthier: cayenne pepper + paprika

💰Cheaper: chili powder

Cayenne and paprika mimic the heat and depth of berbere.

red lentils

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: split peas

Green lentils provide a similar texture with less cost.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil adds flavor while being healthier.

fresh ginger

🥗Healthier: ground ginger

💰Cheaper: ginger powder

Ground ginger is more accessible and lasts longer.

Turn on Sauté mode. Wait 30-40 seconds for the inner pot to get hot, then add butter or ghee.

Add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until onions soften.

Add minced garlic and ginger and sauté another minute, then add tomato paste, salt and Berbere seasoning / spice mix. Stir well.

Add rinsed and drained lentils, water and stir. Press 'Cancel' and close the lid. Select Manual or Pressure Cook and cook for 4 minutes at high pressure on sealing mode.

After the cooking is complete, wait 5 minutes for natural pressure release, then follow the quick release instructions. Open the lid after the pin drops.

Stir and check for consistency. If the stew seems too thick, add ½-1 cup of water (or as needed) and stir well till the water gets absorbed and lentils reach a creamy consistency. Check for seasoning.

Finish the dish with a light squeeze of lime juice. Serve with the traditional sourdough flatbread, injera.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary