One of the most popular activities around here during the past weeks has been chewing chunks of sorghum stalks, which are called "bel" in Dinka. This probably doesn't sound too appetizing, so let me explain.
People cut down a length of sorghum stalk, tear off the outer husk with their teeth and then bite off chunks of the tender inner cane, which is somewhat sweet and juicy. After chewing it until all the sweetness is gone, they spit out and throw away the fibers that are left. The boy on the left in the video below will show you how it's done.
People cut down a length of sorghum stalk, tear off the outer husk with their teeth and then bite off chunks of the tender inner cane, which is somewhat sweet and juicy. After chewing it until all the sweetness is gone, they spit out and throw away the fibers that are left. The boy on the left in the video below will show you how it's done.
Chewing bel is a way to calm hunger pangs during the weeks before the sorghum is ripe, and even once people have enough to eat, bel makes a nice snack.
Ha, I love the expression on his face;) Very cool.
ReplyDeleteIndeed!
DeleteIt sounds and looks like sugar cane...maybe it is similar. The kids are so cute!
ReplyDeleteHeather, yes, I think it is similar to chewing on sugar cane.
Delete