Recipe for real Arabic coffee - From best coffee shops in Saudi Arabia
How to make real Arabian coffee from Saudi Arabia (photo: Freepik)
Arabic coffee, which is served in the best coffee shops in Saudi Arabia, is a true taste of the East. Such a drink not only awakens the senses, but also reflects centuries-old traditions, where every detail, from lightly roasting the beans to adding fragrant cardamom, has a special meaning.
Arabian coffee is not just a drink, it is a ritual, a symbol of hospitality, and a part of the Middle East's cultural heritage. Here's a tried-and-true recipe shared by coffee masters from the best Saudi coffee establishments.
Ingredients (per 1 liter of water):
- 1 liter of cold water
- 3-4 tablespoons of ground Arabian coffee (use a light roast to preserve the delicate flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom (or 3-4 cardamom pods, lightly chopped beforehand)
Optional: a pinch of ground cloves or a few strings of saffron for extra flavor
Preparation:
- Pour water into a small saucepan or traditional coffee pot (dalla).
- Bring the water to a boil.
Brewing coffee:
Once the water boils, add the ground coffee. Let the mixture boil again, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You can stir lightly during the brewing process to ensure that the coffee is steeped evenly.
Adding spices:
Add the ground cardamom 5 minutes before the end of cooking. If using cloves or saffron, add them along with the cardamom. These spices will add a unique flavor to the drink, which is so appreciated in Saudi Arabia.
Infusion and straining:
Remove the coffee pot from the heat and let the drink steep for a while (about 3-5 minutes). Then strain the coffee through a fine sieve to remove any remaining ground coffee and spices.
Serving:
Serve hot Arabic coffee in small cups (finjans). Traditionally, it is not sweetened, but accompanied by fresh dates or dried fruits.
How to serve Arabic coffee (photo: Freepik)
Tips from the masters:
- Arabic coffee is made without sugar to preserve its natural flavor and aroma.
- It is important not to bring the coffee to a strong boil after adding the spices - this way, the spices will retain their delicate aroma.
- Enjoy the process - making Arabic coffee is a ritual that brings family and friends together over a cup of warm drink.
You may also be interested in:
- What mistake turns coffee into poison
- How many cups of coffee can you drink a day without harming your health
- Is it worth drinking decaf coffee and for whom such a drink is contraindicated
Sources: Arabian Coffee Culture, arabiccoffeerecipes.com, Coffee & Culture Blog
