Ambae

Ambae
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Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Kava blong Maewo i strong we i strong

When visiting other islands I always make sure I taste their kava...for culture learning only of course ;)  So when I was in Maewo Justin made us Kava blong Maewo with the help of his host brother and papa.  Earlier in the day the kava was pulled out of the ground.  When it was starting to get dark Justin got to work. 

First step:  rinse off the dirt.
Then cut the roots up into smaller pieces.

A piece of coral is then used to grind the kava roots into smaller pieces.

The kava is then squeezed and strained through a part of the coconut husk.

Next up...drinking!  Individual shells are made and then directly passed to the drinker by the man that made kava.  Your hands need to first be cleaned with water then you are ready to drink.

Usually men in Maewo face South and squat down while drinking but it is no longer customary.

The taste of Kava is definitely unique...but the result is pleasant.  Sometimes the initial "kick" can be a little intense!  But, it is an experience worth trying!




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