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Yemisir Kik (Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew)

Creamy Ethiopian red lentil stew spiced with garlic, ginger, and berbere. Served with injera or flatbread, it's a warming vegan dinner that captures authentic Ethiopian flavors.

Total time
40 min
Servings
4
Calories
285
Protein
17g
Yemisir Kik (Ethiopian Red Lentil Stew)
comfortcozyethiopianveganvegetariandairy-freelentilscreamy

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups red lentils
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp berbere spice blend
  • 4.5 cups vegetable broth
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 pinch salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 1

    Rinse red lentils under cold water until water runs mostly clear.

  2. 2

    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium until shimmering, about 90 seconds.

  3. 3

    Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, 5 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add minced garlic and grated ginger; stir constantly until fragrant, 60 seconds.

  5. 5

    Stir in berbere spice and toast for 30 seconds, stirring, until oil smells warm and spiced.

  6. 6

    Add rinsed lentils and vegetable broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.

  7. 7

    Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils completely break down.

  8. 8

    Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Stew should look thick and creamy, not watery.

  9. 9

    Ladle into bowls. Serve with injera, pita, or flatbread for scooping.

Tools you’ll need

  • large pot with lid
  • wooden spoon
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • fine-mesh sieve
  • knife and cutting board

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