Tej (Traditional Ethiopian Honey Wine) Recipe

Tej (Ethiopian honey wine) is a unique and intriguing drink with a long history and cultural significance. It has been enjoyed for centuries in Ethiopia. Its sweet and fragrant taste has made it a staple at both everyday meals and ceremonial occasions.

Tej is traditionally made from honey, water, and the leaf and stems of Gesho (a type of plant similar to hops). It has a distinct flavor that can be sweet or dry depending on how it is made, and it can range in strength from light to strong.

Here is a step-by-step recipe that will help you prepare Tej at your home. Enjoy!

Ingredients Required to Make Tej

  • 2 pounds of honey
  • 5 liters of water
  • 8 ounces of ground Gesho Kitel (Hops Leaves)
  • 4 ounces of Gesho Entchet (Hops Stems)

How to Make Tej (Step-by-Step Tutorial)

  1. Mix the water, honey, and Gesho Kitel, and let the mixture sit for 3 days at room temperature in a large container.
  2. Take 6 cups from the mixture and transfer into a pot along with the Gesho Entchet, and heat to a boil.
  3. Cook on low heat for 15 min, then remove from heat and let it cool.
  4. Next, pour it back into the original mixture in the large container, seal the container, and let it sit for 2 weeks.
  5. If the mixture is too dry after the 2 weeks, you can add 1 cup of honey and let it sit overnight. And, if the mixture is overly sweet, add more Gesho Entchet and some water and let it ferment.
  6. Use cheesecloth to strain, then serve chilled.

Equipment Recommendations to Make Tej

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Tej Recipe

Tej (Traditional Ethiopian Honey Wine) Recipe

Tej (Traditional Ethiopian Honey Wine) Recipe

Recipe by Sara Z. Bayou

Tej (Ethiopian honey wine) is a unique and intriguing drink with a long history and cultural significance. It is traditionally made from honey, water, and the leaf and stems of Gesho (a type of plant similar to hops). It has a distinct flavor that can be sweet or dry depending on how it is made, and it can range in strength from light to strong. Here is a step-by-step recipe that will help you prepare Tej at your home. Enjoy!

Course: DrinksCuisine: EthiopianDifficulty: Advanced
Servings

10

servings
Cooking time

15

minutes
Prep time

18 – 20

days
Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of honey

  • 5 liters of water

  • 8 ounces of ground Gesho Kitel (Hops Leaves)

  • 4 ounces of Gesho Entchet (Hops Stems)

Directions

  • Mix the water, honey, and Gesho Kitel, and let the mixture sit for 3 days at room temperature in a large container.
  • Take 6 cups from the mixture and transfer into a pot along with the Gesho Entchet, and heat to a boil.
  • Cook on low heat for 15 min, then remove from heat and let it cool.
  • Next, pour it back into the original mixture in the large container, seal the container, and let it sit for 2 weeks.
  • If the mixture is too dry after the 2 weeks, you can add 1 cup of honey and let it sit overnight. And, if the mixture is overly sweet, add more Gesho Entchet and some water and let it ferment.
  • Use cheesecloth to strain, then serve chilled.
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Sara Z. Bayou

Sara Z. Bayou

Sara is a cultural storyteller and food enthusiast with a passion for preserving Ethiopia’s heritage. With a background in anthropology and culinary arts, she curates Ethiopian Roots’ recipes, cultural deep-dives, and travel guides. Sara’s expertise is further showcased in her acclaimed cookbook, “Vegetarian Ethiopia: 60 Timeless Recipes of Authentic Ethiopian,” where she expertly guides readers through the vibrant flavors and nutritional wonders of Ethiopian vegetarian cuisine.

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