The Most Famous Arabian Beverage Qahwa
Transport your taste buds to the heart of Arabia with this authentic recipe for Qahwa, the most famous Arabian beverage. Perfumed with crushed cardamom pods, a pinch of luxurious saffron, and an optional hint of rose water, this aromatic spiced coffee is a cultural treasure. Made with lightly simmered green coffee beans, this warm and inviting drink offers a unique, earthy flavor profile that's a far cry from your average cup of coffee. Perfectly balanced and naturally caffeine-light, Qahwa is traditionally served hot in small cups, often accompanied by sweet, chewy dates for a perfect pairing. Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is a celebration of tradition and flavor, ideal for sharing with family and guests. Try this iconic Arabian coffee to bring history and hospitality to your table!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp green coffee beans
- 3 cups water
- 6 pods cardamom pods
- 1 pinch saffron threads
- 1 tsp optional rose water
Instructions
1. Roughly crush the green coffee beans using a mortar and pestle or a rolling pin.
2. Pour 3 cups of water into a saucepan and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
3. Once the water is boiling, add the crushed green coffee beans to the saucepan.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the coffee simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. While the coffee is simmering, slightly crush the cardamom pods for maximum flavor release.
6. After the coffee has finished simmering, turn off the heat and add the crushed cardamom pods and a pinch of saffron threads to the saucepan. Stir well.
7. Let the mixture sit for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
8. If you like a floral touch, add 1 teaspoon of rose water at this stage and stir.
9. Strain the Qahwa into a serving pot or directly into small Arabian coffee cups using a fine mesh strainer.
10. Serve hot, traditionally accompanied by dates or other dried fruits.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
104 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.3 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 25 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 23.4 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.9 g | 50% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.1 g | ||
| Protein | 4.6 g | 9% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 93 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 2.4 mg | 13% | |
| Potassium | 645 mg | 14% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
