Best 30-Minute Vegan Ethiopian Recipes

Ethiopian cooking is warm, vibrant, and full of deep, comforting flavours. It transforms simple ingredients into rich dishes with bold spices, tender vegetables, and satisfying textures.

These 30-Minute Vegan Ethiopian Recipes bring the spirit of Ethiopian cuisine to your kitchen with ease. You’ll enjoy dishes inspired by Berbere spice, lentils, chickpeas, and leafy greens – all cooked quickly without losing their soulful depth.

Each recipe is wholesome and aromatic. You’ll find soft stews, warm sautés, and lightly spiced sides that work beautifully for busy days.

With just a few pantry staples and some essential spices, you can enjoy nourishing meals that feel grounding and full of heart.

Whether you’re new to Ethiopian flavours or already love these comforting dishes, this collection offers quick recipes that fit your lifestyle. Each one brings warmth, balance, and plant-based goodness to your everyday cooking.

Best 30-Minute Vegan Ethiopian Recipes

Recipe #1 — Timatim Selata (Ethiopian Tomato Salad)

This bright Ethiopian salad brings a refreshing mix of tomatoes, lime, and gentle heat.
The flavours come together quickly, creating a light side dish that pairs beautifully with richer Ethiopian meals.

The red onion and jalapeño add crunch and warmth, while olive oil softens the acidity and gives a smooth finish.
It’s simple, colourful, and ready in minutes — perfect for busy days.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Total time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Tomatoes: 2 large, diced
• Red onion: ¼ cup, finely chopped
• Jalapeño: ½ pepper, finely chopped
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Lime juice: 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed
• Berbere spice: ½ teaspoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Add the tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño to a mixing bowl.
2. Pour in the olive oil and lime juice.
3. Sprinkle Berbere, Celtic sea salt, and black pepper.
4. Toss the timatim selata gently to combine.
5. Let the Ethiopian tomato salad rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈80
• Protein: 2 g
• Fibre: 2 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g

Health Benefits

Tomatoes provide vitamin C and lycopene, which support heart health and help reduce oxidative stress. Lime juice boosts immunity and enhances nutrient absorption, especially iron from plant-based foods.

Jalapeño and red onion add antioxidants that may support digestion and metabolism. Olive oil offers healthy fats that help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins, making this salad both refreshing and nourishing.

Learn more about the benefits of tomatoes.
Explore more vegan salad recipes.

Recipe #2 — Azifa (Spicy Green Lentil Salad)

This refreshing Ethiopian lentil salad offers bright flavours with a gentle kick. The green lentils absorb the lime and mustard dressing, creating a light dish that feels clean and satisfying.

Fresh herbs and mild heat give the salad depth without weighing it down. It’s quick to prepare and works beautifully as a side dish or a simple plant-based lunch.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Green lentils: 1 cup, cooked and cooled
• Red onion: ¼ cup, finely chopped
• Jalapeño: ½ pepper, finely chopped
• Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Lime juice: 1½ tablespoons, freshly squeezed
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Yellow mustard: 1 teaspoon
• Berbere spice: ½ teaspoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Add the cooked lentils, red onion, jalapeño, and parsley to a mixing bowl.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, mustard, and Berbere.
3. Pour the dressing over the lentils.
4. Season with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
5. Toss gently to coat, then let the salad sit for 5 minutes so the flavours blend.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈220
• Protein: 12 g
• Fibre: 9 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g

Health Benefits

Green lentils provide plant-based protein, iron, and fibre, making this salad filling and supportive of steady energy.
Their high fibre content helps promote digestion and may assist in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

Lime juice and fresh herbs add antioxidants and vitamin C, which support immunity and enhance mineral absorption.
Olive oil contributes heart-healthy fats that help your body absorb key nutrients, making this light salad both nourishing and uplifting.

Learn more about the benefits of legumes.
Explore more vegan lentil recipes.

Recipe #3 — Misir Wot (Spiced Red Lentil Stew)

This quick version of Misir Wot brings all the warmth and depth of traditional Ethiopian flavours in just 30 minutes. The red lentils soften into a creamy base that carries the rich spices beautifully, creating a comforting and nourishing bowl.

The onions, garlic, and Berbere add gentle heat and earthy aroma, while the tomato paste deepens the colour and taste. It’s a simple, satisfying stew that pairs well with injera, rice, or a fresh salad.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Red onion: ½ cup, finely chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated
• Berbere spice: 1 tablespoon
• Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon
• Red lentils: 1 cup, rinsed
• Vegetable broth: 2½ cups
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the red onion and cook until softened.
2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Berbere and tomato paste, mixing well to coat the onion mixture.
4. Pour in the red lentils and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer for 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and creamy.
6. Season with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
7. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈260
• Protein: 15 g
• Fibre: 10 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g

Health Benefits

Red lentils offer a rich source of plant-based protein and fibre, helping maintain steady energy and supporting digestive health.

Their iron content also makes them a valuable ingredient for plant-based diets, especially when paired with citrus, like lemon, for better absorption.

Berbere provides powerful antioxidants from its blend of warming spices, which may support circulation and help reduce inflammation.

The garlic, ginger, and tomatoes add additional immune-supportive compounds, making this stew both comforting and nourishing.

Learn more about the benefits of lentils.
Explore more vegan lentil recipes.

Recipe #4 — Shiro Wot (Chickpea Flour Stew)

This quick version of Shiro Wot creates a smooth and creamy stew in just minutes. The chickpea flour blends with warm spices to form a comforting base that feels rich without being heavy.

It is one of the easiest Ethiopian dishes to prepare, making it perfect for busy days. The Berbere adds depth and gentle heat, while the sautéed onions and garlic give the stew a warm and savoury aroma.

The result is a silky dish that pairs beautifully with rice, injera, or fresh greens.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Red onion: ½ cup, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Berbere spice: 1 tablespoon
• Chickpea flour: ½ cup
• Vegetable broth: 2 cups
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft.
2. Stir in the garlic and Berbere, cooking for 1 minute to release the spices.
3. Whisk the chickpea flour with ½ cup of the vegetable broth until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into the pot, then add the remaining broth.
5. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until the stew becomes thick and creamy.
6. Season the shiro wot with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
7. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈240
• Protein: 10 g
• Fibre: 6 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g

Health Benefits

Chickpea flour provides plant-based protein and fibre that help support steady energy and healthy digestion. It also contains iron and folate, which are important for overall vitality, especially in plant-based diets.

Berbere adds antioxidants from its blend of warming spices, while garlic and onions offer immune-supportive compounds. With healthy fats from avocado oil and vitamin C from fresh lemon, this stew feels nourishing, balanced, and deeply comforting.

Learn more about the benefits of chickpeas.
Explore more vegan chickpea recipes.

Recipe #5 — Atkilt Alicha (Cabbage, Carrot, and Potato Sauté)

This gentle atkilt alicha Ethiopian dish brings together soft cabbage, sweet carrots, and tender potatoes in a warm and comforting sauté. The mild spices allow the natural flavours of the vegetables to shine, creating a simple and satisfying meal.

The turmeric gives the dish its golden colour and adds a subtle earthy note. Everything cooks in one pan, making it quick to prepare and perfect for a nourishing weeknight dinner or a flavourful side dish.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Potatoes: 2 medium, diced
• Carrots: 2 medium, sliced
• Onion: ½ cup, chopped
• Cabbage: 2 cups, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
• Cumin: ½ teaspoon
• Vegetable broth: ¼ cup
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the potatoes, carrots, and onion. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Stir in the garlic, turmeric, and cumin.
3. Add the cabbage and pour in the vegetable broth.
4. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are tender.
5. Season the atkilt alicha with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
6. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈210
• Protein: 4 g
• Fibre: 6 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g

Health Benefits

This dish offers a wholesome mix of fibre-rich vegetables that support digestion and steady energy. Potatoes provide potassium for healthy muscles and hydration, while carrots add beta-carotene for eye and skin wellness.

Turmeric brings natural anti-inflammatory properties, and cabbage supports gut health with beneficial plant compounds. Cooked in avocado oil and finished with Celtic sea salt, this sauté feels grounding, nourishing, and balanced.

Learn more about the benefits of carrots.
Explore more vegan recipes with cabbage.

Recipe #6 — Gomen (Ethiopian Collard Greens)

Gomen is a warm and comforting Ethiopian dish made with tender collard greens and gentle spices. The slow sauté brings out the natural earthiness of the greens, creating a simple side that feels nourishing and flavourful.

The onions and garlic add depth, while a touch of cumin keeps the dish grounded and aromatic. It cooks quickly and pairs perfectly with lentils, rice, or any of the other Ethiopian recipes in this collection.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Collard greens: 4 cups, chopped
• Onion: ½ cup, finely chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Cumin: ½ teaspoon
• Vegetable broth: ¼ cup
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft.
2. Stir in the garlic and cumin.
3. Add the collard greens and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and cover the pan.
5. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender.
6. Season the gomen with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
7. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈140
• Protein: 4 g
• Fibre: 5 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g

Health Benefits

Collard greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, offering strong antioxidant support and helping maintain healthy bones. Their natural fibre supports digestion and steady energy throughout the day.

Garlic and onions provide immune-supportive compounds, while cumin adds minerals and gentle warmth. Cooked in avocado oil and seasoned lightly, this dish feels balanced, grounding, and naturally nourishing.

Learn more about the benefits of leafy greens.
Explore more vegan recipes with kale.

Recipe #7 — Fosolia (Green Beans and Carrots Sauté)

Fosolia is a bright and colourful Ethiopian side dish made with crisp green beans and sweet carrots. The vegetables cook quickly, keeping their texture while absorbing gentle spices.

Garlic, onions, and turmeric bring warmth and depth, creating a simple dish that pairs beautifully with stews, rice, or fresh salads. It is light, flavourful, and perfect for a balanced plant-based meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Green beans: 2 cups, trimmed and halved
• Carrots: 2 medium, sliced
• Onion: ½ cup, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Turmeric: ½ teaspoon
• Cumin: ½ teaspoon
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft.
2. Stir in the garlic, turmeric, and cumin.
3. Add the green beans and carrots.
4. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season the fosolia with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
6. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈150
• Protein: 3 g
• Fibre: 5 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g

Health Benefits

Green beans and carrots offer a natural source of fibre, helping support healthy digestion and steady energy. Carrots add beta-carotene, an antioxidant that promotes eye and skin wellness.

Turmeric brings gentle anti-inflammatory benefits, while garlic and onions support overall immune health. Cooked in avocado oil and lightly seasoned, this dish feels light, nourishing, and balanced.

Learn more about the benefits of green beans.
Explore more vegan recipes with carrots.

Recipe #8 — Tikil Gomen (Turmeric Cabbage and Potatoes)

Tikil Gomen is a soft and comforting Ethiopian vegetable dish made with tender cabbage, golden turmeric, and warm spices. The vegetables cook slowly in one pan, creating a mild and soothing flavour profile.

The potatoes add heartiness, while the carrots bring gentle sweetness. With its bright colour and soft texture, this dish pairs well with stews, salads, or a simple bowl of rice.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Cabbage: 3 cups, chopped
• Potatoes: 2 medium, diced
• Carrots: 2 medium, sliced
• Onion: ½ cup, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
• Cumin: ½ teaspoon
• Vegetable broth: ¼ cup
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft.
2. Stir in the garlic, turmeric, and cumin.
3. Add the potatoes and carrots. Cook for a few minutes to soften slightly.
4. Add the cabbage and pour in the vegetable broth.
5. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
7. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈200
• Protein: 4 g
• Fibre: 6 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g

Health Benefits

This dish provides a comforting mix of fibre-rich vegetables that support digestion and steady energy. Cabbage offers antioxidants and plant compounds that promote gut wellness, while potatoes add potassium for healthy hydration and muscle function.

Turmeric contributes natural anti-inflammatory properties, and carrots bring beta-carotene for skin and eye health. Cooked in avocado oil and lightly seasoned, Tikil Gomen feels nourishing, grounding, and easy to enjoy any day of the week.

Learn more about the benefits of cabbage.
Explore more vegan recipes with cabbage.

Recipe #9 — Misir Firfir (Spiced Lentils with Injera Pieces)

Misir Firfir is a quick and comforting Ethiopian dish made by combining tender lentils with torn injera. The injera absorbs the warm spices and creates a soft, flavourful texture that feels rich without being heavy.

This lighter version uses a modest amount of lentils and adds onions, garlic, and tomatoes for extra freshness. It comes together fast and works beautifully as a simple meal or a warm side dish.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 30 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
• Red onion: ½ cup, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Tomatoes: 1 cup, diced
• Berbere spice: 1 tablespoon
• Red lentils: ½ cup, rinsed
• Vegetable broth: 1½ cups
• Injera: 1 large piece, torn into small pieces
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

Method

1. Heat the avocado oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft.
2. Stir in the garlic, tomatoes, and Berbere.
3. Add the lentils and vegetable broth.
4. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the torn injera and mix gently to absorb the sauce.
6. Season the misir firfir with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
7. Serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈230
• Protein: 10 g
• Fibre: 7 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g

Health Benefits

This dish provides plant-based protein and fibre from the lentils, helping support steady energy and healthy digestion. Tomatoes contribute antioxidants and vitamin C, while onions and garlic offer natural immune-supportive compounds.

Injera adds whole-grain benefits and a natural source of resistant starch that supports gut wellness. Combined with warming spices and healthy fats from avocado oil, this dish feels balanced, comforting, and nourishing.

Learn more about the benefits of lentils.
Explore more vegan recipes with lentils.

Recipe #10 — Berbere Tofu Tibs (Spicy Ethiopian-Style Tofu Stir-Fry)

These berbere tofu tips are the plant-based version of Ethiopian Tibs, bringing bold spices, crisp tofu, and sautéed vegetables together in a fast and flavourful stir-fry. The Berbere gives the dish a warm and spicy aroma that pairs beautifully with the tofu’s golden edges.

The vegetables add colour, sweetness, and crunch, making the dish balanced and satisfying. It cooks in minutes and works well with rice, quinoa, or a simple side salad.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Tofu: 1 block, pressed and cubed
• Avocado oil: 1½ tablespoons
• Onion: ½ cup, sliced
• Red bell pepper: 1 cup, sliced
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated
• Berbere spice: 1 tablespoon
• Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon
• Vegetable broth: ⅓ cup
• Celtic sea salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Method

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and Berbere.
4. Add the tomato paste and vegetable broth. Mix well to form a sauce.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and toss to coat.
6. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the flavours blend.
7. Season the berbere tofu tips with Celtic sea salt and black pepper.
8. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ≈260
• Protein: 16 g
• Fibre: 4 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g

Health Benefits

Tofu offers plant-based protein and essential minerals that support muscle health and steady energy. The vegetables add natural fibre and antioxidants, helping support digestion and overall wellness.

Berbere contributes powerful warming spices that may help reduce inflammation and support circulation. Cooked in avocado oil and finished with fresh lemon, this dish feels vibrant, balanced, and nourishing.

Learn more about the benefits of soy.
Explore more Ethiopian-inspired vegan recipes.

Conclusion

Ethiopian cooking is full of warmth, depth, and colour, and these quick recipes make it easy to enjoy those flavours at home. Each dish brings its own balance of spice, comfort, and freshness, giving you simple meals that feel nourishing and vibrant.

Whether you prefer light salads, creamy stews, or bold stir-fries, these recipes offer something for every mood and every day of the week. They’re easy to prepare, kind to your schedule, and filled with the heart of Ethiopian cuisine.

I trust you enjoyed this collection of 30-Minute Vegan Ethiopian Recipes. Stay tuned for more plant-based dishes, global inspirations, and everyday vegan cooking ideas.

Take care!
— JeannetteZ 🌿

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