Authentic Ethiopian Mesir Wat (Spiced Red Lentil Stew) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of red lentils
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 tablespoons of Berbere spice
  • 1 tablespoon of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 4 cups of vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
  3. Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for another minute until the ingredients are well combined.
  4. Stir in the Berbere spice, paprika, cumin, and turmeric. Continue to sauté for about 2 minutes to toast the spices and release their flavors.
  5. Add the tomato paste to the saucepan and stir until it is well incorporated with the other ingredients.
  6. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the lentils.
  8. Simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 40 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the mixture has thickened.
  9. Season with salt to taste.
  10. Serve warm with injera or bread of choice.

Tools for making

  • Saucepan - A large saucepan is needed to cook the lentils and spices.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is necessary for finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
  • Grater - A grater is required to grate the fresh ginger.
  • Measuring cups - Measuring cups are essential to accurately measure the lentils and vegetable broth.
  • Tablespoon - A tablespoon is needed to measure the tomato paste and the Berbere spice.
  • Teaspoon - A teaspoon is required to measure the ground cumin and turmeric.
  • Stirring spoon - A stirring spoon or spatula is necessary to stir the ingredients while cooking.
  • Vegetable peeler - A vegetable peeler is useful for peeling the ginger.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board provides a surface for chopping the onion and garlic.
  • Can opener - A can opener is needed to open the can of tomato paste.

Recipe variations

  • Add vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
  • Replace the red lentils with yellow lentils or split peas for a different taste and texture.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of Berbere spice or add extra chili powder.
  • Include some coconut milk for a creamy and slightly sweet twist.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar to give the dish a tangy flavor.
  • If desired, incorporate diced tomatoes or tomato puree to enhance the richness of the sauce.
  • For a meaty variation, add cooked chicken, beef, or lamb to the dish.
  • To make it vegan, substitute vegetable broth for any meat-based broths and omit any meat additions.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as fenugreek, cinnamon, or cardamom to personalize the flavors.
  • For a gluten-free option, serve the Mesir Wat with gluten-free bread or substitute injera with gluten-free flatbread.

Recipe overview

Mesir Wat is a hearty and flavorful Ethiopian stew that is a staple in its native country. Filled with red lentils, rich spices such as Berbere, and simmered to perfection, this stew is as comforting as it is delicious. You can enjoy it as a main dish or as a side, and it pairs perfectly with Injera, a traditional Ethiopian flatbread. This recipe will walk you through the process step by step, making it easy for you to bring a taste of Ethiopia into your kitchen. Expect a vibrant and fragrant dish that is not only nutritious but also vegan-friendly. The cooking process is straightforward, primarily involving sautéing and simmering, and the result is a delightful stew that is sure to impress. Get ready to discover your new favorite dish with this Mesir Wat recipe.

Common questions

  1. Can I use any type of lentils for this recipe? No, it is recommended to use red lentils for the authentic flavor and texture of Mesir Wat.
  2. What is Berbere spice? Berbere spice is a traditional Ethiopian spice blend that typically includes chili peppers, garlic, ginger, fenugreek, and various other spices. It adds a unique and flavorful kick to the dish.
  3. Can I adjust the level of spiciness? Yes, you can adjust the amount of Berbere spice according to your preference for heat. Start with the recommended amount and add more if desired.
  4. Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking? No, there is no need to soak the red lentils before cooking. Simply rinse them thoroughly before using.
  5. What can I serve Mesir Wat with? Mesir Wat is traditionally served with injera, a sourdough flatbread. However, you can also enjoy it with rice, bread, or any other grain of your choice.
  6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, Mesir Wat can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Mesir Wat is a dish that hails from the enchanting lands of Ethiopia, a place where cuisine is steeped in history and rich in flavor. This hearty stew is a testament to Ethiopia's fondness for lentils, one of the nation's staple foods. It's traditionally eaten with an Ethiopian flatbread known as injera, a sourdough-risen bread with a slightly spongy texture that serves as both a plate and a utensil in Ethiopian cuisine. What's fascinating about this dish is its reliance on Berbere spice, a distinctive blend that's central to Ethiopian cooking. This spice blend, with its unique combination of fiery chilli peppers, fragrant garlic, and warming spices, reflects the country's age-old spice trade routes and infuses the lentil stew with a depth of flavor that is distinctively Ethiopian. With every bite of Mesir Wat, one can savor a taste of Ethiopia's vibrant culture and rich culinary heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.