Ethiopian Spiced Lentil Stew with Berbere Yogurt Sauce

[Joseez]

Ethiopian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and complex spice blends, and this Ethiopian Spiced Lentil Stew with Berbere Yogurt Sauce is a perfect example! It's a hearty and flavorful stew packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, and the cooling Berbere Yogurt Sauce adds a delightful tangy counterpoint. Plus, it's vegetarian and relatively simple to make!

Ingredients:

• For the Spiced Lentil Stew:
  • 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon berbere spice mix (see note below)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Berbere Yogurt Sauce:
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon berbere spice mix
  • Salt to taste

Procedure:

1. Make the Spiced Lentil Stew: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the berbere spice mix, turmeric, cumin, and coriander to the pot and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Add the rinsed lentils and stir to combine. Increase heat to medium and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for another 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. While the stew simmers, make the Berbere Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, berbere spice mix, and salt until smooth.
6. To serve, ladle the hot lentil stew into bowls and top with a dollop of Berbere Yogurt Sauce. Enjoy with injera bread (a spongy Ethiopian flatbread) or your favorite crusty bread.

This recipe is a great way to explore the unique flavors of Ethiopian cuisine. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

 

[lizasoberan]

I think this recipe is a winner! The spiced lentil stew with the cool yogurt sauce must be a great balance. Have you tried it with some sautéed greens, though? ​

 

[MashaBear]

Wow, your Ethiopian spiced lentil stew with berbere yogurt sauce sounds incredible! Can almost smell those aromatic spices through the screen. Can't wait to recreate this flavorful dish at home. Thanks for sharing such a unique recipe!

 

[potatohead101]

This looks amazing! I've been wanting to try more vegetarian dishes lately.