Our Story

Mama Habesha is more than just Tesmi

We share a centuries-old tradition of Eritrean and Ethiopian hospitality. Our authentic Tesmi not only enriches everyday dishes, but also builds bridges between people and cultures. As the guardian of a rich culinary heritage, Mama Habesha welcomes everyone to our dining table. Whether you are familiar with Tesmi or discovering it for the first time.

Our mission extends beyond the kitchen. We believe that food connects people and strengthens communities. That’s why we actively work to create positive change that contributes to the well-being of our environment.

Origin of Mama Habesha

In 2020, during a vacation to Italy, Mateos Grmazion stopped by family in Switzerland. When he got home, his mother asked why he hadn’t indicated that he was going to family, so that she could have given him Tesmi. This made Mateos realize that Tesmi wasn’t available online in 2020, which surprised him. He also wondered why he always had to take Tesmi with him, when his family never sent it to him. The Netherlands is known as a dairy country, which means that you can make Tesmi with the best quality butter.

This experience led to the creation of Mama Habesha, a fusion of Dutch butter with Eritrean/Ethiopian herbs. In this way we bring the best of both worlds together in one jar.

In Eritrean and Ethiopian culture, it is customary for mothers to make Tesmi, an essential product in the kitchen. Mateos' mother taught him how to make Tesmi himself.

Social purpose

Mama Habesha is a social enterprise with a focus on the community. Founder Mateos, whose parents came to the Netherlands in the 90s, understands the challenges of newcomers. That is why Mama Habesha offers newcomers and status holders supported workplaces, with the ambition to eventually employ them and offer them perspective in the Netherlands.

Our team, passionate and with diverse backgrounds, carries our values ​​and traditions. By working with Mama Habesha, you are not only choosing quality and tradition, but also strengthening the community and creating opportunities for the future.