Ethiopian Misir Wot (Spiced Red Lentil Stew)

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cup red lentils (rinsed)
• 1 onion (finely diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp ginger (grated)
• 3 tbsp berbere spice blend
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 cup water or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil or niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced butter)
• salt, to taste
• injera bread (or flatbread; for serving)

Steps

1. 1

   Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Cook onion for 8-10 minutes until deeply softened and starting to brown.

2. 2

   Add garlic, ginger, and berbere spice. Cook for 2 minutes until very fragrant.

3. 3

   Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.

4. 4

   Add lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

5. 5

   Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils have broken down into a thick, stew-like consistency. Add more water if needed.

6. 6

   Season with salt. Serve on or alongside injera bread, scooping the wot with pieces of the bread.