As the golden sun rises over the rugged landscapes of the African savannah, the Hadzabe tribe begins their day with energy and tradition. Today, the aroma of something special fills the air—it’s time for the sweet, delicious breakfast of roasted monkey BBQ. 😋😋
The Hadzabe, one of the last true hunter-gatherer tribes, live close to nature and rely on their ancient hunting skills for survival. In the early morning hours, a small hunting party had returned successfully with a monkey, caught using handmade bows and carefully crafted poison-tipped arrows. While this may seem shocking to outsiders, for the Hadzabe, it’s a normal and important part of their way of life.
The preparation for breakfast begins right at the crack of dawn. A fire is built quickly using dry twigs and brush. The monkey is cleaned and then carefully placed over the open flame. As the fire crackles, the meat begins to roast, its fat dripping and sizzling, releasing a strong, smoky scent that awakens everyone nearby. The smell of the roasting monkey is rich and tempting, promising a filling start to the day.
Children gather near the fire, their eyes wide with excitement, while the elders watch over the cooking process with experience and care. The monkey turns golden brown as it’s slowly cooked, ensuring that every part is crisped just right. For the Hadzabe, this isn’t just food—it’s breakfast with meaning, a reward for their hard work and hunting success.
Once ready, the roasted monkey is divided and shared equally. The tribe sits in a circle, eating with their hands, laughing and talking in their native tongue. The meat is smoky, tender, and savory—an energizing meal to fuel their day of gathering, hunting, and exploring.
Though it may be different from what many consider a “normal” breakfast, to the Hadzabe, it’s a delicious tradition. Sweet, smoky, and full of flavor—roasted monkey BBQ is truly a breakfast to remember. 😋
