Misr Wat (Spicy Ethiopian Lentil Stew)

Next up is a particular favourite of ours, Misr Wat, an Ethiopian lentil stew packed with a Berbere punch!

This stew is packed with protein, nutrients and an abundance of rich flavours and spices.

It’s important to make a batch of Niter Kibbeh before beginning this recipe for the full taste – this is an Ethiopian butter that is used in sautéing. Otherwise, you’re welcome to use coconut oil, it’ll still taste great!

We recommend serving this as a main dish with a side of rice (try our Ethiopian wild rice recipe) and we highly recommend some Ethiopian pancakes (Injera) and Buticha for dipping (this is a lovely chickpea based dip combined with mustard and spices).

Take a look at our vegan african recipes page for more like this!

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Misr Wat (Ethiopian Lentil Stew)

Misr Wat is a popular Ethiopian lentil stew packed protein, nutrients, amazing flavours and traditional spices (yep, it's packed with a Berbere punch!). Serve with your favourite Ethiopian side dishes.

Course Main Course

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

Spices & Sauces

• 1 1/2 tbsp niter kibbeh (or coconut oil)
• 3/4 tbsp berbere spice mix
• 1 tsp garlic minced
• 1/4 tbsp ginger finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tbsp tomato puree
• 1 1/2 cups vegan broth
• salt and pepper (to taste)

Vegetables

• 1/2 cup brown/red lentils
• 1/2 head cauliflower chopped into small pieces
• 1/2 onion finely chopped
• 1/2 cup frozen peas

Instructions

1. Heat up a large sauce pan and add the niter kibbeh.

2. Once it begins melting, add the onion, garlic, ginger and all dry spices. Cook for 3 minutes or until the onions become translucent.

3. Drain and add your lentils, cauliflower and tomato paste, stirring for around 3 minutes until combined. To prevent burning or sticking, splash in a bit of water to keep the pan moist.

4. Once fragrant, add your vegan broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, simmer on the lowest heat for 30 minutes (add your peas after 25 minutes of simmering).

5. Add salt and pepper as desired and mix well.

6. Garnish with a little vegan greek yogurt (optional).

Recipe Notes

• Make sure you soak your lentils for 2 hours before cooking for best results.
• Make Niter Kibbeh in advance. Find out how to make it here.

    Visit our Ethiopian recipes page for more vegan inspiration!