Can I use red lentils instead of green?

Yes, but note that red lentils cook faster and may result in a mushier texture.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I prepare this tart in advance?

You can prepare the lentil filling ahead of time and assemble the tart just before baking to maintain the phyllo's crispness.

Is there a gluten-free alternative for phyllo pastry?

Gluten-free phyllo is available in some specialty stores, or you can use gluten-free pastry as a substitute.

How can I make this tart vegan?

Use vegan butter substitute for brushing the phyllo and ensure the coconut milk is a dairy-free option.

Creamy Ethiopian Lentil and Rosemary Phyllo Tart

Name: Creamy Ethiopian Lentil and Rosemary Phyllo Tart
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Green Lentils; Vegetable Broth; Olive Oil; Onion; Garlic; Ground Cumin; Ground Coriander; Turmeric; Paprika; Fresh Rosemary; Salt and Pepper; Coconut Milk; Phyllo Pastry; Unsalted Butter; Coconut Oil Spray; Rosemary Sprigs

A fusion of creamy spiced lentils enveloped in flaky phyllo pastry.

This tart merges Ethiopian spices with a classic Mediterranean touch, creating a deliciously unique dish perfect for any gathering.

1 h 30 min
8
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Creamy Lentil Filling

Green Lentils

1 cup, rinsed

Vegetable Broth

3 cups

Olive Oil

1 tbsp

Onion

1, finely chopped

Garlic

2 cloves, minced

Ground Cumin

1 tsp

Ground Coriander

1 tsp

Turmeric

1/2 tsp

Paprika

1/2 tsp

Fresh Rosemary

1 tbsp, chopped

Salt and Pepper

to taste

Coconut Milk

1/2 cup

For the Phyllo Crust

Phyllo Pastry

1 package (approx. 12 sheets)

Unsalted Butter

1/2 cup, melted

For the Assembly

Coconut Oil Spray

Rosemary Sprigs

for decoration

Preparation

Cooking the Lentil Filling

Simmer Lentils

In a pot, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil and then simmer until tender, about 20–25 minutes. Drain any excess liquid.

Do not overcook the lentils, as they should retain some texture.

Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.

Add Spices

Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika. Stir until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Using fresh rosemary enhances the aromatic profile of the tart.

Cooking Process

Assemble Phyllo Crust

Brush each phyllo sheet with melted butter and layer them in a tart pan, allowing edges to hang over the sides.

Fill the Tart

Spread the cooked lentil mixture evenly over the phyllo crust.

Creamy Finish

Drizzle coconut milk over the lentil mixture before folding over the excess phyllo.

Plating & Serving