A sign of Welcome........

This is kwei which is nothing but raw betel nut accompanied with betel leaf with a dash of lime. Those are the whole kwei cut into small pieces and the folded leaves are the whole betel leaf which has lime inside. here the local folks would offer this to a guest before even offering tea. It is a way of welcoming them warmly and is beleived that the poorest of the poor if he has nothing to offer his guests, will at least have a piece of kwei to offer his guest......The taste is something i cannot define but i beleive its very addictive in the sense that for people who are habituated in having kwei will look for one after every meal at least.....i suppose it acts like a mouth refreshener. I have taken it on occasions and i feel it warms you up...specially good for winters, can't say i like it to the extent of getting addicted. But for people who are having it for the first time....i would advice to take it with care .......making sure the amount of lime is just right for you. A visit to a dentist would advice you against having it ......does no good for your teeth or gums. lol!!

( This post is specially for magiceye and priyanka who were interested to know about kwei...)