Slow-Simmered Berbere Spiced Ethiopian Lentil Stew

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-17 · Updated 2026-06-17

A hearty Ethiopian-inspired lentil stew simmered with aromatic berbere spice blend and tender vegetables, perfect for a comforting vegan meal. This Ethiopian-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 60 minutes, pairs brown lentils, water, yellow onion for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 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 brown lentils
• 4 cups water
• 1 medium, diced yellow onion
• 1 large, chopped carrot
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp, grated ginger
• 2 tbsp berbere spice blend
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp, or to taste salt
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp, chopped, for garnish fresh cilantro

The Dutch oven we’d braise this in → Best Dutch Ovens for 2026: Top Picks + Buying Guide

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 1 cup brown lentils under cold water until clear and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium diced yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Step 3: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp grated ginger, and 2 tbsp berbere spice blend; cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Add 2 tbsp tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
5. Step 5: Add the rinsed lentils, 4 cups water, and 1 large chopped carrot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
6. Step 6: Add 1 cup water or vegetable broth and 1 tsp salt; continue simmering for 10 minutes until the stew thickens and flavors meld.
7. Step 7: Taste and adjust salt as needed. Serve hot, garnished with 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro.