IRAQ: Goat grab

Marines and State Department employees in Iraq are adjusting to Iraqi hospitality, particularly a communal style of eating the Americans refer to as a goat-grab.

The Iraqis lay out a feast of goat, lamb, beef and chicken, backed by rice, raw vegetables, and a tortilla-style bread. It's all served on large platters and diners, sitting on the floor, are obliged to use their hands to scoop up large portions.

As good hosts, the Iraqis like to plop large amounts of food on the Americans' plates, using their fingers.

The difference between the two cultures' views of personal hygiene can cause some angst among the Americans. Some Marines avoid certain parts of goat; others stay away from the pinkish part of the chicken or find a way not to eat anything they didn't put on their plates themselves.

One sergeant caused a bit of a stir when he left a feast just as the food was served, explaining that he needed to check on Marines outside. High-ranking officers have little choice but to dig in, so as not to offend their hosts.

John Matel, the State Department employee in charge of reconstruction projects in western Anbar province, has been to many such feasts and loves the food. He says he can't help but thinking it's fun for the Iraqis to "see what the American will eat."
Babylon & Beyond