🇪🇹 Ethiopia · Food
Azifa
By eatmundo · September 8, 2026
🇪🇹 ETAI-generated imageAzifa is a vibrant Ethiopian green lentil salad, popular for its tangy, spicy, and earthy profile. It is often served as a cold appetizer or a side dish in a larger platter of various Ethiopian stews.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Thoroughly rinse 500g of green lentils under cold running water, removing any debris, then boil them in 1 liter of water for 30-40 minutes until tender but not mushy.
- 2
Drain the cooked lentils completely using a colander and let them cool down to room temperature to ensure the salad holds its texture.
- 3
Finely mince 2 large onions and 4 cloves of garlic, and grate 1 tbsp of ginger to form the aromatic base for the dressing.
- 4
In a bowl, combine the lentils with the minced onions, garlic, ginger, and 100ml of vegetable oil to start building the flavors.
- 5
Add 1 tbsp of turmeric powder, 1.5 tsp of salt, and 2 sliced green chilies; these spices give Azifa its signature golden hue and characteristic bite.
- 6
Using a mortar and pestle or the back of a large wooden spoon, gently crush about one-third of the lentil mixture to create a creamy texture.
- 7
Mix everything thoroughly until well combined, adjust salt to taste, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors meld together perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Azifa?+
Azifa is a traditional Ethiopian cold lentil salad made with boiled green lentils, aromatics, and spices. It is commonly enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer or side dish.
Should the lentils be fully soft?+
The lentils should be cooked until tender enough to be easily crushed with a spoon, but they should retain some shape so the salad doesn't become a puree.
Can I use different types of lentils?+
While green or brown lentils are standard for Azifa, avoid using red lentils as they disintegrate too quickly and will ruin the salad's texture.
How spicy is Azifa?+
The spice level is adjustable by varying the amount of green chilies used; traditional recipes often carry a moderate, pleasant heat.
Can I prepare Azifa in advance?+
Yes, Azifa is even better after resting in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to penetrate the lentils thoroughly.
🇪🇹 ETAI-generated image
