Coffee Tasting Ritual: Ethiopia

Coffee Tasting Ritual:
Ethiopia

Today we share the experience of a coffee tasting ritual in Ethiopia. For people still doing well with “dry January” (no alcohol) we salute you with a cup of strong coffee. And chocolate cake. Can’t forget the cake.

I really like dark espresso topped with cinnamon and chile powder. How about you?
- Cris

Coffee tasting ritual

When in Napa, you can experience wine tours. When in Ethiopia, you can experience coffee tastings called ‘cuppings.’ Imagine walking into a room filled with the beautiful smell of freshly roasted coffee. 9-10 different roasts from very light to very dark are available for you to taste. Several varieties with flavor notes ranging from chocolate to vanilla are offered.

How does anyone taste that much coffee without acid indigestion? You achieve this miracle by attending a coffee ceremony, in which small cups are paired with local fresh meals and even chocolate. You walk out super energized and feeling fabulous. Interested? Let’s do this.

The Ethiopian coffee ceremony transcends the simple act of drinking coffee. It is a time-honored tradition steeped in history and symbolism, reflecting the core values of Ethiopian society. The ceremony typically involves the roasting of green coffee beans, grinding them, and brewing the coffee in a special pot called a “jebena.” The process can last for hours and serves as an occasion for family, friends, and neighbors to come together, share stories, and discuss local matters. I imagine topics range from who is cheating on whom and who is using too much water. The normal stuff that people gossip about when cooking together.

For an authentic experience, visiting Ethiopia is unparalleled. It’s even better than visiting Italy (I can hear the Italian objecting strongly). The country offers numerous opportunities to witness and participate in the ceremony, whether in urban settings or rural villages. Addis Ababa, the capital city, is a prime location to start. Here, you can find modern cafes and traditional settings where the ceremony is performed. Local tour companies like East Africa Tour Company host ceremonies in private homes for a truly authentic version of the coffee ceremony.

Insider tip: It’s polite to bring a small gift as a gesture of friendship and appreciation to a coffee ceremony. You wouldn’t show up to a friend’s house for dinner without bringing flowers or a dessert, right? It’s the same with a coffee ceremony. The emphasis is on small - an extravagant gift would embarrass your host.

Teff Chocolate Cake

While Ethiopian food has historically been savory without an emphasis on sweet desserts, there seems to be an exception with Teff Chocolate Cake. In recent years, this cake has been seen in more bakeries and cafes as people pair coffee and chocolate for an afternoon snack.

This cake utilizes teff, an ancient grain indigenous to Ethiopia, known for its fine texture and high nutritional value. Teff flour imparts a subtly nutty flavor, complementing the rich chocolate, and results in a moist, gluten-free dessert. You saw the comment about high nutritional value, right? “It’s healthy!”

Cultural Significance

While not a traditional Ethiopian dessert, Teff Chocolate Cake represents the fusion of Ethiopian ingredients with global culinary techniques. Its presence in contemporary Ethiopian cafes and bakeries reflects the country's evolving palate and openness to incorporating international flavors. Serving this cake alongside Ethiopian coffee enhances the tasting experience, as the cake's sweetness balances the coffee's robust and often fruity notes. No one had to tell me twice - I was ready with the word ‘chocolate.’

You can make Teff Chocolate Cake in your own home and pair it with your favorite coffee. I “might” eat this for breakfast this week 😀 

Teff Chocolate cake recipe from Portico Ethiopian Restaurant

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I’ll be enjoying my healthy, gluten-free breakfast this morning. No one will upset me for at least 2 hours. This might be the key to world peace.

See you next Wednesday.

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