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Ethiopian Misir Wat Soup

A vibrant bowl of spicy Ethiopian Misir Wat soup garnished with fresh cilantro and served with traditional injera bread.

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A vibrant bowl of spicy Ethiopian Misir Wat soup garnished with fresh cilantro and served with traditional injera bread.

This Ethiopian Misir Wat Soup is a flavorful delight characterized by its vibrant red color and spicy kick, making it an inviting choice for any meal. Made primarily with red lentils and spiced with the famous berbere spice blend, this soup offers a wonderful balance of heat and depth. Prepared with onions and garlic, it not only offers exceptional taste but also nutrient-rich qualities that will satisfy your comfort food cravings. Served alongside injera bread, this dish celebrates the best of Ethiopian cuisine.

This recipe is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Red lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this dish perfect for vegetarians and vegans. They are rich in fiber, which supports digestive health, and also provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and folate. The spices used, particularly berbere, are renowned for their health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and metabolism-boosting effects, making this soup an excellent addition to a balanced diet.

This Misir Wat Soup is versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, a festive gathering, or simply looking for a warm bowl of comfort on a chilly day, this dish can be the star of your meal. It pairs beautifully with injera, making it a traditional option for game days or cultural celebrations. Additionally, it can easily be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a practical choice for your busy weeknights.

A vibrant bowl of spicy Ethiopian Misir Wat soup garnished with fresh cilantro and served with traditional injera bread.

Ethiopian Misir Wat Soup

Recipe by Lena Caldwell

Difficulty

Beginner

Servings

4 servings

Prep time

15 Mins

Cooking time

35 Mins

Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons berbere spice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Injera bread for serving

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add 1 chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add 2 tablespoons of berbere spice and stir for another minute to release the flavors.
  6. Incorporate the rinsed lentils and add 4 cups of vegetable broth.
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Once lentils are soft, blend the soup until smooth (optional) and return to the heat.
  9. Season with salt and pepper to taste and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy with injera bread on the side!

Nutrition Facts

Calories

320

Carbs

45

Protein

18

Fats

10