One of the most popular dishes to try as an Eritrean tourist is the tsebhi. This is a stew served with a flatbread made from wheat and legumes known as taita. Stews often include a touch of spice to add to the flavour, and are made with fish or meat.
Being situated adjacent to the Red Sea, Eritrea makes use of this proximity to create a variety of delicious seafood dishes. Tomatoes are a popular addition, which are added to the local delicacy known as tsebhi dorho. Eritrean tourists will be pleased to discover that Italy has also left its mark on the national cuisine. Pasta dishes abound, which are enhanced by an Ottoman history, with cumin and different curries to produce astounding taste to local cuisine.
Another special dish for Eritrean tourists to try is that of kitcha fit-fit. This dish is made from shredded bread, oil and spices, accompanied by more spices and plain yoghurt. Kitcha fit-fit is a common breakfast meal, generally served along with leftover stew. Akelet or ga'at is a favourite porridge of the region, with yoghurt and berbere spice being accompaniments for just about any dish.
Both an African and a Mediterranean influence, coffee is a staple drink among natives. As an Eritrean traveller, be sure to try the unique tea known as sowa, which is made from fermented barley. Mies is another popular drink among Christian Eritreans that is made from fermented honey. Healthy and tasty.
As a tourist, the coffee ceremony is a must in Eritrean cuisine and culture. This ceremony is a mark of respect and welcome to visitors and friends. It forms a part of daily life and is present at festivals. Of course, those who do not drink coffee may decline the offer in a polite manner and shahee (tea) will be served to them instead.
Eritrean hotel fair will include a variety of foods to match the tastes of international tourists. But if you have the chance to visit an Eritrea restaurant on your travels, you will be pleasantly surprised at the number of dishes served to be shared at your table among your friends. Eritreans use their right hand to eat their food as it is disrespectful/impure to use the left hand.