Although rice is not cultivated in Senegal, the other ingredients are a beautiful representation of some of the beautiful resources that Senegal has to offer. For example, fresh fruit and fresh seafood are abundant.
More importantly, I think, is the way that ceebu jen is served--all around one large dish. There is a huge emphasis on sharing in Senegalese culture. Whenever I go anywhere that people just so happen to be eating, they always invite me to eat with them, whether they know me or not. I've ridden in taxis where the driver offered me some of his snack, just because. The idea is that there is enough in the world for everyone, and the way that meals in Senegal are served reflects that notion. When the dish is served, you only eat from the portion that is directly in front of you, ensuring that there is enough for everyone, no matter how many people are around the table.
