Tigrayans traditionally do not eat pig products for religious reasons, both Orthodox Christians and Muslims. To my mother’s dismay, my sister and I developed a taste for salami, ham and bacon. She was liberal enough to buy it for us, but wouldn’t cook with it. This transgression did not warrant us being shipped off to Tigray.
KEYSIR SALATA (BEETROOT & BACON SALAD)
SALAD
2 potatoes (any kind)2 beetroot1 green chilli, core removed, sliced½ red onion, diced½ cup (75g) bacon rashers, fried and diced (optional)
DRESSING
2 tbsp olive oil1 tsp salt1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice1 tsp English mustard (optional)
Put the potatoesa large saucepan full of water, then bring to the boil. The beetroot should take about 30 minutes and the potatoes about 10; check by pricking with a fork. Avoid overcooking, as it will be too mushy. Remove the beetroot and potatoes from the stove, then allow to cool. Peel, then dice to the desired size.
