Ethiopian Spicy Split Lentil Stew (Yemiser Kik Wot)

My Ethiopian Cooking: Spicy Split Lentil Stew (Yemiser Kik Wot)

Ethiopian Spicy Split Lentil Stew (Yimser Wot) is cooked with chili powder (Berbere) and served with Injera (Ethiopian flat bread) or bread of your choice. Excellent dish for vegans and Lent Observers.

Ingredients

1 cup split red lentils
1 ½ tablespoon hot red chili pepper (Berbere)
3 tablespoon extra-virgin or vegetable oil;
1 small red onion or shallot (chopped)
5 ½ cup of water
4 glove garlic (diced) or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ false cardamom powder (if available) *
Black pepper and salt to taste

Preparation:

1st Step: Bring to boil 4 cups of water in a medium pot. Rinse the lentils with fresh water and add to it. Cook for 5 minutes;

2nd Step: Remove the foam with spoon and discard . Lightly drain the extra water in a container or a cup;

3rd Step: Meanwhile, sauté the onion with ½ cup of water and one tablespoon of oil for 5 minutesor until tender;

4th Step: To the cooked onion add one cup of water, hot red chili powder (berbere), the rest of the oil, garlic and black pepper. Stir for 10 minutes;

5th Step: Combine the lentils and sauce. Mix well. If more water is needed, use the set-aside water. Cook the stew for 20 minutes until it simmers.

6th Step: Add false cardamom and salt to taste. Remove from heat. Serve it warm or cold.

P.S. To make it mild, you may use tomato sauce.

* You will find these spices in Ethiopian or Indian shops/groceries

Serving 4

For nutritional facts of this recipe please visit http://www.recipezaar.com/363212. For vitamin content please click on "Print Recipe" on aforementioned site.