Xanthan Gum Free Classic Ethiopian Lentil Stew
Rich, slow-cooked onions form the backbone of this deeply savory lentil stew, building a jammy, caramelized base before the berbere and tomato paste go in to bloom and toast into something truly aromatic. Red lentils break down into a thick, spoonable stew that's hearty enough to be a full meal on its own. Niter kibbeh — Ethiopian spiced clarified butter — adds a layer of warmth and complexity that plain butter simply can't match, though unsalted butter works beautifully if that's what you have on hand. A bright hit of lemon juice at the finish keeps everything balanced and alive. Because this dish is built entirely from whole spices, legumes, aromatics, and butter, there's no need for any thickeners or stabilizers — the lentils do all that work naturally as they simmer down. Serve it scooped onto injera or a simple flatbread, with a handful of fresh cilantro or parsley scattered over the top for color and freshness.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 medium yellow onions, finely diced
- 3 tbsp niter kibbeh (ethiopian spiced clarified butter) or unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp berbere spice blend
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 3 cups water
- 1 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For serving
- injera or flatbread, for serving (optional)
- 1–2 tbsp fresh cilantro or flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Heat the niter kibbeh in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and jammy, about 25–30 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low if the onions begin to scorch at the edges.
- 2
Push the onions to the side of the pot and add the garlic and ginger directly to the cleared space. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute, then stir them into the onions.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!