09 Apr 2025
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
3 onions
1/2 cup olive oil
3/4 cup canned tomatoes
3 cups water
2 cups lentils
1 tbsp ginger root
1 tbsp garlic
1 dash salt
Missir Wat is a flavorful and hearty Ethiopian lentil stew, known for its rich and spicy profile. This delicious dish is made with red lentils, aromatic spices, and a blend of onions, tomatoes, and ginger, making it a comforting and nutrient-packed meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it pairs wonderfully with injera or rice.
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
- Finely chop the onions.
- Mince the ginger root and garlic.
- Rinse and drain the lentils.
2. Cooking Onions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and golden brown, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Adding Aromatics:
- Add the minced ginger and garlic to the pot.
- Stir and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant.
4. Incorporating Tomatoes:
- Add the crushed or pureed canned tomatoes to the onion mixture.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to thicken and the oil starts to separate from the tomatoes.
5. Cooking the Lentils:
- Pour in the water, stirring well to combine.
- Add the rinsed and drained lentils.
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmering:
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low-medium to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
7. Finishing Touch:
- Season the stew with a dash of salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
8. Serving:
- Serve the Missir Wat hot, ideally with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or over rice.
Tips:
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
- To enhance the flavor, sauté the onions until they are golden brown and caramelized.
- Consider adding berbere spice for an authentic Ethiopian flavor if you have it on hand.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, cook the lentils longer or reduce the amount of water slightly.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for a more aromatic and intense flavor.
Missir Wat is an excellent choice for those looking to explore Ethiopian cuisine or simply enjoy a warm and satisfying lentil dish. With its robust flavors and comforting nature, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Serve it with traditional injera or over rice for a complete and delicious meal.