Ethiopian Mild Split Lentils Stew (Yemser Alicha)

Name: Ethiopian Mild Split Lentils Stew (Yemser Alicha)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (split); 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion (thinly chopped); 5 1/2 cups water; 1/4 teaspoon turmeric or 1/4 teaspoon curry; 1/2 teaspoon fresh garlic or 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder or 1 teaspoon fresh ginger root juice; 1/4 teaspoon white pepper powder; 1 hot green pepper (seeded, sliced); salt and black pepper

Servings: persons

1
Bring to boil 4 cups of water in a medium pot. Rinse the lentils with fresh water and add to it to the boiling water. Cook it for 5 minutes.
2
Remove the foam with spoon and discard. Lightly drain the extra water in a container or a cup.
3
Meanwhile saute the onion with 1/2 cup of water and oil for 5 minutes or until tender.
4
To the cooked onion, add 1/2 cup of water, garlic, ginger, white pepper, curry or turmeric. Stir for 5 minutes;.
5
Combine the lentils and the sauce. Mix well. If more water needed, use the water which is set aside. Cook the Stew for 15 minutes or until it simmers.
6
Add salt, hot green pepper and mix it well. Remove from heat. Serve it warm or cold.
7
Some of the spices could be found in Ethiopian or Indian shops/groceries.

175

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Feel free to swap in similar ingredients you already have on hand and adjust seasoning to taste.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 10 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 cup lentils (split), 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, 1 onion (thinly chopped), 5 1/2 cups water, and more.

Yes, Ethiopian Mild Split Lentils Stew (Yemser Alicha) falls under the Soups & Stews category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!