Misir Wot - Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew with Homemade Berbere Spice Blend.

berbere spice

🥗Healthier: homemade spice blend

💰Cheaper: cayenne pepper + paprika

Homemade blends can control heat and flavor.

red lentils

🥗Healthier: green lentils

💰Cheaper: split peas

Green lentils are often less processed and cheaper.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil adds flavor and health benefits.

fresh cilantro

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: dried herbs

Parsley is more widely available and less costly.

Toast whole spices: nutmeg, cloves, all-spice berries, cinnamon, coriander seeds, cumin, black peppercorns, and cardamom until fragrant, about 20-45 seconds.

Grind toasted spices into a fine powder.

Mix ground spices with ginger powder, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper to make the berbere spice blend.

Heat a couple tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pot.

Add 6 diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to caramelize.

Add berbere spice, minced garlic, and grated ginger; sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in tomato paste and washed red lentils, then add salt to taste.

Pour in 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes until lentils are tender and thickened.

Stir in fresh cilantro before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary