Dinner

Ethiopian Berbere Lentil Stew Recipe

Name: Ethiopian Berbere Lentil Stew Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Ethiopian
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 2 tablespoons berbere spice blend; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium carrot, diced; 1 medium bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups chopped kale or spinach; Juice of 1 lemon

ByLily Monroe February 21, 2026February 21, 2026

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Introduction

This Ethiopian Berbere Lentil Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender lentils with a vibrant blend of spices. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, it offers a wonderful balance of warmth and zest from the berbere spice and lemon juice.

A white bowl filled with a thick, reddish-brown lentil stew, showing a rich and chunky texture with visible cooked lentils mixed in a thick sauce. The lentils are topped with small, bright green chopped herbs spread evenly over the surface. Two round lemon slices rest at the back edge of the bowl, adding a pop of yellow. The bowl is placed on a piece of rough beige burlap, set against a white marbled surface. A small sprig of green herb lies beside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
2 tablespoons berbere spice blend
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium carrot, diced
1 medium bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the berbere spice blend and stir well to coat the onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook for another minute.
Step 4: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, lentils, carrot, bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
Step 5: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
Step 6: Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
Step 7: Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 8: Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more berbere spice to taste.
Substitute kale with spinach or collard greens based on your preference.
Use red lentils for a softer texture, but reduce cooking time accordingly.
Serve with injera bread or over rice to complete the meal.

Storage

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the consistency.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a black bowl filled with a thick, dark brown lentil stew that has a slightly chunky texture. On top, there is a swirl of white cream unevenly spread across the surface, adding a smooth and light contrast. Fresh green cilantro leaves cover part of the cream, placed mainly in the middle, providing a bright, leafy accent against the dark stew. A silver spoon is partially submerged on the right side of the bowl, reflecting light and resting against the bowl's edge. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a small white bowl of cilantro leaves blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Add them in later during cooking and reduce the simmering time accordingly since canned lentils are already cooked.

What is berbere spice blend?

Berbere is a traditional Ethiopian spice mix made from chili peppers, garlic, ginger, basil, korarima, rue, ajwain, and other warm spices. It adds a rich, complex heat and flavor to dishes.