Spicy Ethiopian Lentil Stew: Flavorful Yemiser W’et Recipe

Sure, let’s dive into the vibrant world of Ethiopian cuisine with this delicious recipe for Yemiser W’et, a spicy lentil stew that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the exotic flavors of Africa. This hearty dish is perfect for lunch or as a snack, boasting a combination of rich spices, tender lentils, and a touch of heat from the berbere seasoning. Whether you’re a lentil lover or new to Ethiopian cuisine, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Yemiser W’et (Spicy Lentil Stew)

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried brown lentils
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup berbere (Ethiopian spice blend)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup vegetable stock or water
• 1/2 cup green peas
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Plain yogurt or cottage cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Rinse and Cook Lentils:

   • Start by rinsing the dried brown lentils under cold water to remove any debris. Then, cook the lentils according to package instructions until they are tender but not mushy. Set aside.

2. Saute Onions and Garlic:

   • In a large skillet or pot, heat a bit of niter kebbeh (Ethiopian spiced clarified butter) or regular oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions are just translucent and fragrant.

3. Add Spices:

   • Stir in the berbere spice blend, cumin seeds, and paprika, allowing the spices to toast and release their flavors for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

4. Simmer with Tomatoes:

   • Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet, mixing well to combine with the onion and spice mixture. Allow the tomatoes to simmer with the spices for another 5 to 10 minutes, until they begin to break down and form a thick sauce.

5. Incorporate Lentils:

   • Pour in 1 cup of vegetable stock or water to the skillet, stirring to incorporate. Then, add the cooked lentils to the sauce, mixing gently to coat the lentils with the flavorful mixture.

6. Add Green Peas:

   • Stir in the green peas, allowing them to cook in the stew for an additional 5 minutes until they are heated through and tender.

7. Season to Taste:

   • Season the Yemiser W’et with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences.

8. Serve:

   • To serve, spread layers of injera (traditional Ethiopian flatbread) on individual plates. Spoon the Yemiser W’et over the injera, and garnish with a dollop of plain yogurt or cottage cheese on the side.

9. Enjoy:

   • To enjoy this flavorful dish, tear off pieces of injera, fold them around bits of stew, and savor the explosion of flavors with each bite. Don’t be afraid to eat with your fingers—it’s all part of the Ethiopian dining experience!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 132.2
• Fat: 0.6g
• Saturated Fat: 0.1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 135.2mg
• Carbohydrates: 24.4g
• Fiber: 9.9g
• Sugar: 5.6g
• Protein: 8.6g

This Yemiser W’et recipe is not only delicious and nutritious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Serve it alongside some extra injera for a complete Ethiopian feast that will delight everyone at the table. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey to Ethiopia right in your own kitchen! 🍲🌿🇪🇹