Ethiopian Spicy Lentil Stew - Instant Pot

User Reviews

4.6

108 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    30 mins

  • Total Time

    35 mins

  • Calories

    244 kcal

  • Course

    Side Dish

  • Cuisine

    Ethiopian

Ethiopian Spicy Lentil Stew - Instant Pot

This Ethiopian Spicy Lentil Stew uses red lentils cooked with onions, garlic, fresh ginger, and berbere spice blend, producing a hearty and warming dish. Cooking in an Instant Pot speeds the process while allowing the flavors to meld. The stew balances heat, spice, and tang from a final squeeze of lime, making it flavorful and satisfying as a main or side when served over rice or with bread.

Description

The recipe starts by sautéing onions in oil or ghee, which lays the flavor foundation. Adding grated ginger and minced garlic contributes freshness and pungency. Red lentils are combined with berbere spice, known for its complex fiery and aromatic profile, then pressure cooked with water in the Instant Pot for ease and speed.

Once cooking completes and pressure is released, the lentils are stirred and additional water is added if a thinner stew is desired. Garnishing with chopped cilantro and lime juice adds brightness and freshness that cuts through the rich spice.

This stew suits serving alongside steamed rice or traditional bread, lending a well-rounded meal. It's a good choice when a comforting, spicy vegetarian dish is wanted, leveraging the convenience of modern appliances without sacrificing authentic flavors.

Alternative stovetop cooking instructions are noted in the supplied notes, providing options for those without an Instant Pot.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils split
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
  • 1 red onion diced, medium
  • 1 teaspoon ginger grated, fresh
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 to 3 tablespoons berbere spice blend
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 3 cups water divided
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro chopped (optional)
  • ½ lime

Instructions

  1. Turn Instant Pot to Saute mode. After the 'hot' sign displays, add oil and onions. Mix well. Cook covered with a glass lid for 2 minutes.
  2. Add ginger and garlic. Mix well and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Add red lentils, berbere spice blend, and salt. Add 2 cups of water and mix everything together.
  4. Close Instant Pot lid with pressure valve to sealing. Cook on Manual(Hi) for 15 mins followed by natural pressure release.
  5. Open Instant Pot, Stir everything. Add more water to bring the stew to desired consistency. Mix well.
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and squeeze fresh lime juice on top before serving with steamed rice or bread.

Notes

  • Use oil or ghee to sauté onions for richer flavor before adding ginger and garlic.
  • Adjust water quantity for preferred stew consistency; add more after cooking if needed.
  • The recipe can be prepared on stovetop by simmering covered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding water as needed.
  • Season generously with salt and fresh lime juice to enhance and balance flavors before serving.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 244kcal (12%) Carbohydrates 32g (11%) Protein 12g (24%) Fat 7g (11%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Sodium 707mg (29%) Potassium 481mg (10%) Fiber 14g (56%) Sugar 2g (4%) Vitamin A 30IU (1%) Vitamin C 8.4mg (9%) Calcium 43mg (4%) Iron 4.6mg (26%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 1Serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 244 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 244kcal 12%
Carbohydrates 32g 11%
Protein 12g 24%
Fat 7g 11%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Sodium 707mg 29%
Potassium 481mg 10%
Fiber 14g 56%
Sugar 2g 4%
Vitamin A 30IU 1%
Vitamin C 8.4mg 9%
Calcium 43mg 4%
Iron 4.6mg 26%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Genuine Reviews

User Reviews

Overall Rating

4.6

108 reviews
Excellent

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