How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

Air Fryer Spiced Ethiopian Lentil and Injera Breakfast Bars

Name: Air Fryer Spiced Ethiopian Lentil and Injera Breakfast Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Ethiopian
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup teff flour (or gluten-free oat flour as a substitute); 1/4 cup chickpea flour; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon berbere spice blend; 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for greasing; 1/3 cup water (add more if needed); Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished May 7, 2026 | Updated Jun 19, 2026

Savor the bold flavors of Ethiopia with these quick spiced lentil and injera breakfast bars. Made with lentils Ethiopian spices flours, these bars are air-fried to crispy perfection for a breakfast or snack.

Start cooking

Air fryerEthiopianEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time18 mins

Total Time28 mins

Servings8

Temperature350°F / 175°C

Ingredients

Servings8

1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup teff flour (or gluten-free oat flour as a substitute)
1/4 cup chickpea flour
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon berbere spice blend
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for greasing
1/3 cup water (add more if needed)
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

Soak the rinsed red lentils in water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly.
In a food processor, combine soaked lentils, teff flour, chickpea flour, onion, garlic, tomato paste, olive oil, and water. Blend until a thick, slightly sticky batter forms. Add water a teaspoon at a time if too thick.
Transfer mixture to a bowl and stir in berbere spice, turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined.
Line an 8x8-inch air fryer-safe pan or small baking dish with parchment paper. Lightly brush with olive oil.
Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan, smoothing the top to about 1/2-inch thickness.
Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
Place pan in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until edges are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before cutting into 8 bars.
Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature as a breakfast or snack.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the red lentils dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer Spiced Ethiopian Lentil and Injera Breakfast Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

FAQ

Can I make Air Fryer Spiced Ethiopian Lentil and Injera Breakfast Bars ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.