Introduction to Tej

Tej is a traditional Ethiopian alcoholic beverage made from honey, water, and a variety of herbs and spices. It is a sweet and tangy wine that has been enjoyed in Ethiopia for centuries. In Ethiopian culture, Tej is considered a symbol of hospitality and is often served during special occasions and celebrations.

Tej is a naturally fermented beverage, meaning that it contains no additional alcohol or preservatives. It is a popular alternative to beer and other alcoholic drinks in Ethiopia, and it is widely available at restaurants and bars throughout the country.

The Ingredients of Tej

The primary ingredient in Tej is honey, which is sourced from local beekeepers in Ethiopia. The honey is typically a mixture of different flower nectars, giving it a unique flavor and aroma. In addition to honey, Tej also includes water, hops, and a variety of herbs and spices, such as gesho and rue.

Preparing the Honey

To prepare the honey, it is first heated to a high temperature to remove any impurities and to make it easier to mix with water. Once the honey has been heated and thinned out, it is mixed with water and placed in a large fermentation vessel.

Fermenting the Honey

The fermentation process for Tej can take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the desired flavor and alcohol content. During fermentation, the yeast naturally present in the honey and the added hops and spices convert the sugars into alcohol, creating a fizzy and tangy beverage.

Adding Extracts and Spices

Once the honey has fermented, various extracts and spices are added to give the Tej its unique flavor and aroma. The most common spice used in Tej is gesho, which is a plant native to Ethiopia that gives the wine a slightly bitter taste.

Aging the Tej

After the spices have been added, the Tej is aged for a period of time to allow the flavors to blend and mature. The aging process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the desired taste and aroma.

Bottling the Tej

Once the Tej has aged, it is bottled and sealed to preserve its flavor and carbonation. The bottles are typically stored in a cool and dark place until they are ready to be served.

Enjoying Tej with Meals

In Ethiopian culture, Tej is often served with meals as a refreshing and flavorful beverage. It pairs well with traditional Ethiopian dishes such as injera, a sourdough flatbread, and wot, a spicy stew made with meat or vegetables. Tej is also often enjoyed as an aperitif or as a dessert wine.