🇪🇹 Ethiopia · Drinks
Tella
By eatmundo · September 8, 2026
🇪🇹 ETAI-generated imageA traditional Ethiopian home-brewed beer characterized by its cloudy appearance and earthy, fermented profile. It is a staple at festivals and communal gatherings.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
In a clean large vessel, combine 1 liter of lukewarm water with 30g of dried gesho leaves.
- 2
Stir the mixture gently to ensure the leaves are fully submerged, which helps in starting the fermentation.
- 3
Add 100g of honey to provide the necessary sugars for the fermentation process.
- 4
Cover the vessel with a breathable cloth or a loose lid to allow carbon dioxide to escape.
- 5
Place the container in a dark, warm spot away from direct sunlight for at least 3 days.
- 6
Check the brew daily; you are looking for a slight effervescence and a sour, pleasant aroma.
- 7
After the desired fermentation level is reached, strain the liquid through a fine cheesecloth into a clean bottle.
- 8
Serve the tella chilled, ideally in traditional horn-shaped vessels or ceramic mugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tella?+
Tella is an traditional Ethiopian fermented beverage, often classified as a home-brewed beer. It is typically prepared from gesho (buckthorn) leaves, water, and cereals or honey, serving as a social drink during holidays.
Can I use store-bought yeast?+
While commercial yeast can speed up fermentation, authentic tella relies on the natural microbes found on the gesho leaves for its unique flavor profile.
How do I know if the fermentation is complete?+
The drink is ready when the bubbles have slowed down significantly and the liquid has developed a slightly tart, acidic taste characteristic of fermented beverages.
Is Tella alcoholic?+
Yes, tella contains a low to moderate alcohol content, depending on the length of the fermentation process and the ingredients used.
What is the role of Gesho?+
Gesho acts as a bittering agent and provides the necessary enzymes and wild yeast cultures to drive the fermentation process, much like hops do in beer.
🇪🇹 ETAI-generated imageMundo Match
Dishes across the world that share Tella's core ingredients.
