🌍 Country of Origin:
Ethiopia – Misir Wot (also spelled "Misir Wat") is a traditional Ethiopian vegan lentil stew made with red lentils simmered in a flavorful spiced sauce called berbere. It’s a staple in Ethiopian homes and often served during fasting or vegetarian days.
🍲 What is Misir Wot?
Misir Wot is a hearty, mildly spicy, and protein-rich stew made with red lentils, onions, garlic, and a special spice blend known as berbere. It's served with injera (a spongy flatbread) and other Ethiopian side dishes in a traditional communal platter called a beyanetu.
🧂 Ingredients (Serves 4):
1 large onion (finely chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
2 tablespoons berbere spice blend
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or niter kibbeh (Ethiopian spiced butter, optional)
3 cups water or vegetable broth
Salt to taste
🌶️ What is Berbere?
Berbere is a fragrant and spicy Ethiopian blend of chili powder, paprika, garlic, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, and other spices. It’s the soul of Ethiopian cuisine. You can buy it pre-made or make a simple version at home.
🔪 How to Make Misir Wot – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Add chopped onions and cook slowly, stirring frequently, until deeply golden (about 10–15 minutes).
Add garlic and ginger; cook for 2 minutes.
Step 2: Add Spices and Tomato Paste
Step 3: Simmer the Lentils
Pour in water or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft and stew is thick.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
🥄 Serving Suggestions
If injera isn’t available, you can use flatbread, pita, or rice.
Pair it with other Ethiopian dishes like atakilt wat (cabbage and carrots) or gomen (stewed greens) for a full Ethiopian meal.
📖 Cultural Insight
In Ethiopia, meals are often shared from a single platter, symbolizing unity and community. Lentil-based dishes like Misir Wot are common during religious fasting periods when meat and dairy are avoided. The depth of flavor comes not from meat, but from spices, technique, and tradition.
📝 Final Thoughts
Misir Wot is easy, healthy, vegan, and deeply satisfying. It’s perfect for meal prep, meatless Mondays, or anyone curious to try African cuisine.
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