Yemiser Selatta – Ethiopian Lentil Salad With Shallots and Chile

May 15, 2023May 15, 20230 4

Yemiser Selatta - Ethiopian Lentil Salad With Shallots and Chile

by The Chefin Salad

Prep

10 min

Cook

30 min

Ready In

40 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1 1/4 cups dried lentils
	3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
	2 tablespoons vegetable oil
	1 teaspoon salt
	8 large shallots , peeled and cut into halves
	2 fresh hot chili peppers , each about 3 inches long
	fresh ground black pepper , to taste

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

231

Sugar

Fat

Yemiser Selatta is a traditional Ethiopian lentil salad that is enjoyed throughout the country. It is often served as a side dish or appetizer, but it can also be a light main course on its own. The lentils are cooked until tender and then tossed with a simple red wine vinegar dressing that is spiked with fresh chilies and shallots. The result is a tangy, spicy, and refreshing salad that is perfect for a warm summer day. This salad is vegan, gluten-free, and packed with plant-based protein, so it's a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthier.

Instructions

1.	Rinse the lentils and remove any debris.
2.	Put the lentils in a large pot and add 4 cups of cold water.
3.	Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4.	While the lentils are cooking, prepare the dressing by whisking together the red wine vinegar, vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
5.	Once the lentils are cooked, drain off any excess water.
6.	Cut the chili peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
7.	Cut the chili peppers into thin slices and add to the lentils along with the shallots.
8.	Pour the dressing over the lentils and toss to combine.
9.	Serve at room temperature or chilled.

PROS

This salad is packed with plant-based protein and fiber from the lentils.

The dressing is made with heart-healthy vegetable oil.

This salad is vegan and gluten-free.

CONS

This salad is quite spicy, so it may not be suitable for everyone.

The shallots can be a bit overpowering, so you may want to adjust the amount to suit your taste.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lentils are one of the healthiest foods you can eat. They are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.
Eating lentils has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
The chili peppers in this recipe may also have health benefits, as they contain capsaicin which has been linked to pain relief and reduced inflammation.