How to Prepare Ethiopian Lentil Soup (Misir Wot) – Egg-Free & Vegetarian
Ethiopian lentil soup known as Misir Wot, is a hearty and comforting dish made with red lentils, spices and tomatoes. This is a warm, spicy, satisfying meal, served alone or with classic injera (Ethiopian flatbread), for a whole experience. This recipe is vegetarian, egg-free, and good for a healthy, hearty meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold and aromatic — A blend of spices provides deep, hearty flavor.
Protein-loaded Lentils are an excellent vegetarian protein source.
Quick and easy – On the table in under 40 mins, made from pantry-friendly ingredients.
Comforting — The warm spices make this soup a cozy dish for any day.
No Eggs & Vegan Complete – Great for people on plant diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch piece ginger, grated
1 large tomato, chopped
1 Tbsp Berbere spice mix (Ethiopian spice mix)
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt, to taste
1 cup red lentils, rinsed & drained
4 cups vegetable broth or water
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon lemon juice
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic and ginger. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the onions is soft and translucent. This step fluffs up the flavor base.
Add the Spices
When the aromatics have softened, stir in the Berbere spice blend along with turmeric, cumin and paprika and cook in the pot. Make sure to incorporate the spices well, then stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the spices bloom and are aromatic. This releases all the essential oils and flavors from the spices, which adds depth to the soup.
Cook the Tomatoes
Now add the chopped tomato to the pot, and stir it in. As they soften and break down, let their juices begin to coat the bottom of the pot, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, until you have a chunky paste-like consistency from the tomatoes.
Simmer the Soup
Now, add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth and tomato paste, and stir. Combine it all, and bring to a simmer. Once it’s bubbling, lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and tender. Stir occasionally and check every now and then for your desired consistency. To bulk up the soup, you can mush some of the lentils, which will result in a creamier soup.
Finish the Soup
When the lentils are done cooking, stir in the lemon juice and black pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for 5 more minutes. Taste and adjust, if desired.
Serve
Spoon the soup into bowls, topping each with fresh cilantro or parsley. For a complete meal, serve hot along with injera, rice or crusty bread.
How to Make the Best Ethiopian Lentil Soup
Turn up the heat – If you like your soup spicier, you can add more Berbere spice or a touch of cayenne pepper.
Use fresh spices: Fresh spices produce more flavor. If you are using commercial Berbere, make sure it’s fresh for the best outcome.
Blend for smoother soup — For a smooth texture preference, it’s possible to blend a portion of the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender before serving.
Serving suggestion: injera – Injera is a spongy, fermented Ethiopian flatbread that’s the perfect companion to this soup. It salted to scoop up the soup and savor all the delicious flavors!
Vegan Ethiopian Red Lentil Soup- Health Benefits
High in Plant-Based Protein – With their high protein content, lentils make this soup a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
Full of fiber – Lentils are rich in dietary fiber, which aids with digestion while helping to stabilise blood sugar levels.
Anti-inflammatory – The ginger, garlic and turmeric in this recipe have arguments against aggravating properties and boost the immune system.
Low in fat – This soup is low in fat and high in vitamins and minerals such as folate, iron and potassium, so it is a heart healthy option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different lentil variety?
A: Red lentils have a shorter cooking time and will break down to a smooth texture. But you can replace them with green or brown lentils, which will take longer to cook.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes! This soup freezes well. Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, heat it on the stove top or in the microwave.
Q: Is Misir Wot usually served with anything else?
A: Correct — Misir Wot is typically served with injera, an Ethiopian flatbread, or rice. It can be served with vegetables, or stews, to make it a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Misir Wot – Spicy Ethiopian Lentil Soup Recipe This Ethiopian Lentil Soup (Misir Wot) is a full of flavor, hearty, comforting dish. Whether this soup is a familiar part of your culinary landscape or a new exploration of Ethiopian cuisine, it brings a vibrant mix of spices and textures to your table. Serve it with traditional injera or simply serve it on its own, for a nutritious and filling meal.
Let the flavour of Ethiopia fill your kitchen and your soul!
Happy cooking! 🍲🌱
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