The food from this country we’re reading next has been my favorite since I was 16 which is strange since few had ever heard of it in New Jersey back then (& it’s probably considered exotic even now in many places). The food doesn’t look particularly appetizing on the plate, but omg, it is extraordinarily flavorful!
Which country am I talking about? These facts from Abeba Tours may help you guess:
More than 70% of its continent’s mountains are found in this country, however, it is also home to one of the lowest points as well at 381 ft (116m) below sea level.
There are more than 80 different ethnic groups in this country with just as many languages & over 200 dialects.
It follows the Julian calendar consisting of 12 months of 30 days each & a 13th month of 5 or 6 days. It’s roughly 7 1/2 years behind the Gregorian calendar which is used by most of the world.
It’s fiscal year begins on July 8 & the new year begins on Sept. 11 (Sept. 12 during leap years).
Any guesses yet as to which country it is? What if I added in…
This land includes the most significant physical detail on the planet that’s visible from space.
It adopted Christianity in the 4th century, making it one of the oldest Christian nations. Islam also appeared early there during Mohammed’s time (7th century).
It remains one of the only nations on the continent never to be colonized.
It’s known as the Cradle of Mankind, with some of the earliest ancestors found buried in the soil.
Coffee was discovered in this country in the region of Kaffa.
The grain used to make its bread is ancient believed to have originated between 4000-1000BC. It’s rich in calcium, iron, & other vitamins while also a good source of protein, amino acids, carbohydrates, & fiber. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free.
So what country are we adventuring to?
It’s Ītyōṗṗyā (Ethiopia in English) & of course. I have to include some food-based books.
The first is an ode to anyone who is trying Veganuary, the annual challenge encouraging people to follow a vegan lifestyle for the month of January for better health & to help the planet. More than 1/2 million people have signed up this year & it’s not too late to join in if you haven’t yet. Sign up for Veganuary for free here & they’ll send you delicious recipes, easy meal plans, & helpful tips—all at no cost.
Even if you’re not doing Veganuary & just trying to add in more plants to your diet, you’ll adore this cookbook. Healthy & delicious dishes are broken down into easy steps with helpful tips.
The 2nd book is a memoir by the famous chef, Marcus Samuelsson. Originally named Kassahun Tsegie, he was born in Ethiopia & lived there before being adopted by Swedish parents during the turmoil of the Ethiopian Civil War. His adopted grandmother got him into cooking. After training in Sweden, Switzerland, & Austria, Samuelsson came to the US to apprentice at an NYC Scandinavian restaurant named Aquavit. He then had a meteoritic rise in the food world becoming the executive chef at Aquavit, turning into a tv star, winning awards, & cooking for 2 sitting Presidents. He now runs restaurants around the world, the most famous of which is Red Rooster in NYC which serves comfort food that celebrates the “roots of American cuisine & Harlem’s diverse culinary traditions.”
Can you tell I’m the ultimate Ethiopian food fan? I swear you’ll become a fan as well once you try the food. Tip: If you visit an Ehtiopian restaurant, get the meat or veggie combination platter. You’ll receive a wonderful tasting of fabulous dishes.
HAVE ANY BOOK SUGGESTIONS?
Just let us know your Ethiopian suggestions by Thurs., Jan. 14 11PM ET. (That’s NYC time. See it converted to your time below.)
You can comment with your suggestion below or in our online book club in Facebook.
We'll use 2 suggestions from book club members, 2 of my suggestions, & 2 suggestions from Mia (the book club co-admin) to compile a list of 6 books on which book club members will provide their thoughts. The book judged as best will then be read.
Please note - We're specific in our books, they must:
Largely occur in the location specified unless the world described is an alternate reality
Be written by an author born there who has spent a good portion of their life there
Exist in paperback & ebook available on both Amazon & Kindle at least in the US & hopefully elsewhere