When backpacking in Somaliland (after a nuts visa experience and a mental border crossing), I decided to try their traditional breakfast, which is locally known as Beer Iyo Basal. Ironically the local spelling includes the word “beer” as this is a dry, alcohol-free country. In English, it is known as Somali-Style Liver. I had heard people call it “loxox” but I realised later that is simply the name of the bread they use.
I ended up staying in 3 different hotels in Hargeisa, my favourite of these by far was the Adam’s Inn Hotel and this is the one where I enjoyed the Liver dish.
It might not sound that tempting eating liver for breakfast, but believe me, this was well worth it and delicious. Most hotels will serve the Somali-Style Liver (Beer Iyo Basal), as will many street vendors. You eat with your hands, no cutlery is provided unless you ask for it. I was having mine as a breakfast in my hotel, so it also came with a bottle of water and a coffee (I asked for milky coffee).
The liver is either beef, sheep or goat. I actually didn’t ask which one, and I usually cannot tell the difference! It is typically sautéed with onions, bell peppers, garlic, and spices. The final dish is often finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice to add a tangy balance. Mine came with all of that…
- Beef, lamb, or goat liver, sliced or chopped
- Onions, thinly sliced
- Bell peppers (capsicum), sliced
- Garlic, minced
- Cooking oil (traditionally vegetable oil, but olive oil is a common modern alternative)
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, cumin powder, curry powder, or a Somali spice mix called Xawaash
- Fresh cilantro (coriander), chopped
- Lemon or lime wedges for serving
- Loxox bread
The loxox bread had 3 pieces and I initally thought this would be too much for me to handle for a breakfast as I have a small stomach. But actually I added the liver into the bread and scoffed the lot!!
Here are the details for staying at the Adam’s Inn in Hargeisa, Somaliland:
Address:
Here are two videos of me eating the Somali-Style Liver (Beer Iyo Basal) In Hargeisa, Somaliland:
