Slow-Simmered Ethiopian Spiced Lentil Stew

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-16 · Updated 2026-06-16

A hearty and aromatic lentil stew infused with traditional Ethiopian spices, perfect for a warming vegan meal. This Ethiopian-inspired vegan recipe, ready in about 50 minutes, pairs red 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 red lentils
• 4 cups water
• 1 medium, finely chopped yellow onion
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 tbsp berbere spice mix
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped (optional) fresh cilantro

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse 1 cup red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear, then set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent and soft.
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 mix and 2 tbsp tomato paste, stirring continuously for 2 minutes to toast the spices and develop the flavor.
5. Step 5: Pour in the rinsed lentils, 4 cups water, and 2 cups vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil.
6. Step 6: Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft and stew has thickened.
7. Step 7: Season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tbsp lemon juice, stirring well.
8. Step 8: Remove from heat and garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm.