🇪🇹 Ethiopia · Drinks
Tej
By eatmundo · September 8, 2026
🇪🇹 ETAI-generated imageTej is a storied Ethiopian honey wine, often referred to as mead, crafted with fermented honey and gesho leaves. It offers a unique balance of sweetness and herbal bitterness that pairs perfectly with spicy traditional cuisine.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Dissolve 100ml of raw honey into 400ml of warm water in a sterilized glass jar.
- 2
Add 2 tablespoons of dried gesho leaves, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- 3
Stir in the teaspoon of grated ginger and the cinnamon stick for a base layer of warmth.
- 4
Seal the jar loosely with a cloth cover to allow for natural aeration during the initial fermentation.
- 5
Place the jar in a cool, dark cupboard at room temperature for 3 to 5 days until small bubbles appear.
- 6
Strain the mixture through a fine cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle.
- 7
Refrigerate the bottle for at least 2 days before serving to allow the flavors to mellow.
- 8
Serve chilled in traditional bell-shaped glasses known as berele.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tej?+
Tej is a traditional Ethiopian fermented honey wine (mead) made from honey, water, and gesho (a species of buckthorn). It is an iconic Ethiopian alcoholic beverage, historically served in specialized glass containers called berele.
Can I replace gesho?+
Gesho is essential for the authentic bitter-earthy flavor and fermentation; while hops are sometimes mentioned as a substitute, they significantly alter the character of the drink.
Is Tej strong?+
The alcohol content varies depending on fermentation time, but it typically ranges from 6% to 12%, similar to a strong wine or craft mead.
Why use a cloth cover?+
A cloth cover allows for necessary gas exchange while preventing dust or insects from contaminating the fermenting honey solution.
How long does Tej keep?+
Once bottled after the initial fermentation, Tej can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks, though it is best enjoyed relatively fresh.
🇪🇹 ETAI-generated imageMundo Match
Dishes across the world that share Tej's core ingredients.
