The Etiquette of Ethiopian Meals
Going Beyond the Plate
Your kitchen is a passport to any country in the world. From spicy Indian Tandoori to comforting German Lebküchen, you have limitless flavors at your fingertips. However, have you ever thought about the eating traditions of different countries? For example, if you had dinner in an Ethiopian household, would you know what to do? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.
Ethiopian Eating Etiquette
Like any household throughout the world, Ethiopian households have mealtime etiquette for a respectable meal, including:
- Serving: You should always offer guests food first and do so in order of age or status.
- Leave a Little Behind: While clearing your plate might be respectful to many, it is more respectful to leave a little bit of food on your plate in Ethiopian households to show that you were properly fed.
- Ditch the Utensils: Instead of using utensils, you can either use your right hand (not left!) to scoop food or use the iconic, slightly sour Ethiopian flatbread, injera.
Good Ethiopian Eats
Ethiopian meals often use injera to scoop food instead of utensils. It is most often served with doro wot, Ethiopia’s national chicken dish whose pungent, vibrant flavor is thanks to berbere, a staple Ethiopian spice blend and this month’s RawSpiceBar blend. After serving the flavorful doro wot, guests will use the injera to bring all of that spicy blended goodness right to their tastebuds for an unforgettable meal.
How will you put your Berbere Blend to use? Share your meals with us on Instagram and follow along for tasty tips and tricks.
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