Berbere-Spiced Ethiopian Lentil Stew

By Lauren Mitchell, Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-30 · Updated 2026-04-30

A hearty and aromatic lentil stew infused with traditional Ethiopian berbere spice blend, simmered to a rich, thick consistency. This ethiopian-inspired vegan ready in about 45 minutes pairs red lentils, water, olive oil for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils
• 3 cups water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium, finely chopped onion
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp, grated ginger
• 2 tbsp berbere spice blend
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp, chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 1 cup red lentils thoroughly under cold water until water runs clear; set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Step 3: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tbsp grated ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add 2 tbsp berbere spice blend and 2 tbsp tomato paste, stirring continuously for 2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen flavors.
5. Step 5: Pour in rinsed red lentils and 2 cups water or vegetable broth, then add 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Step 6: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft and stew thickens.
7. Step 7: Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp lemon juice and 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro for brightness before serving.