Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Tere Sega
Considered something of a luxury in Ethiopia,
tere sega
(raw meat) is traditionally served
by the wealthy at weddings and other special occasions.
Some restaurants also specialise in it. Not unlike butcher shops in appearance, these
places feature carcasses hanging near the entrance and men in bloodied overalls brandish-
ing carving knives. The restaurants aren't as gruesome as they sound: the carcass is to
demonstrate that the meat is fresh, and the men in overalls to guarantee you get the piece
you fancy - two assurances you don't always get in the West.
DOS & DON'TS
Do
» Bring a small gift if you've been invited to someone's home for a meal. Pastries or
flowers are good choices in urban areas, while sugar, coffee and fruit are perfect in
rural areas.
» Use just your right hand for eating. The left (as in Muslim countries) is reserved for
personal hygiene only. Keep it firmly tucked under the table.
» Take from your side of the tray only; reaching is considered impolite.
» Leave some leftovers on the plate after a meal. Failing to do so is sometimes seen
as inviting famine.
» Feel free to pick your teeth after a meal. Toothpicks are usually supplied in restaur-
ants.
Don't
» Be embarrassed or alarmed at the tradition of
gursha,
when someone (usually the
host) picks the tastiest morsel and feeds it directly into your mouth. The trick is to
take it without letting your mouth come into contact with the person's fingers, or al-
lowing the food to fall. It's a mark of great friendship or affection, and is usually giv-
en at least twice (once is considered unlucky). Refusing to take
gursha
is a terrible
slight to the person offering it!
» Put food back onto the food plate - even by the side. It's better to discard it onto the
table or floor, or keep it in your napkin.
» Touch your mouth or lick your fingers.
» Fill your mouth too full. It's considered impolite.
