Mesir Wat (Ethiopian Red Lentils)

Recipe contributed by Liora Samuel. Like kik alicha (split pea sauce), mesir wat is a quintessential vegetarian Ethiopian stew that is served on the traditional flatbread, injera. Feel free to kick up the heat if you like it spicier.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced,
- 1 head of garlic, minced
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and picked over for stones
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt, white pepper and black pepper to taste
- 1-1½ cups water