Ethiopia | Beverages | Flaxseed

Telba

(Ethiopian flaxseed beverage)

Yield: 4-6 servings


INGREDIENTS PREP AMOUNT
Flaxseed 1 cup
Water 6 cups
Honey 1-2 Tbsp

METHOD

Basic Steps:  Toast → Grind → Strain → Sweeten → Chill
  1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over low heat. Add flaxseed and dry roast, stirring for about 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.
  2. Place flaxseed in a spice grinder and grind to a powder. Sift into a bowl.
  3. Add water and stir. Let set for about 10-20 minutes to allow solids to settle out. Strain into a pitcher, add honey and chill.

VARIATIONS

  • Telba Firfit: Mix telba with broken up pieces of injera bread and heat. Serve as a sidedish.
  • Toasted unhulled barley and sunflower seeds are sometimes added.

NOTES

  • Telba is a refreshingly creamy beverage. Be cautious of how much you drink though, as it is a mild laxative.