By eatmundo · September 8, 2026
🇪🇹AI-generated imageSame ingredients, elsewhere in the world
8 matchesDishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Tej. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.
Grzane Piwo (Spiced Hot Beer)In Poland · same ingredients60%
Saenggang-cha (Ginger Tea)In South Korea · same ingredients57%
Ginger Jujube TeaIn South Korea · same ingredients50%
Tej 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.
According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Tej from another cuisine is Grzane Piwo (Poland): the two share 60% of their ingredients.
Ingredients
tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping listHow 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 warm, dark spot at room temperature and let it ferment for 14 days, stirring once a day, until the vigorous bubbling has slowed and the tej tastes less sweet, slightly dry and pleasantly bitter.
- 6
Strain the fermented tej through a fine cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and close it loosely.
- 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 depends on how long it ferments. After the full 14-day fermentation it typically reaches 6% to 12%, similar to a strong wine or craft mead. A shorter ferment gives a sweeter, milder drink.
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.
🇪🇹AI-generated image
