Arabic Coffee - More Than a Drink.

Each area ,tribe , nation or country has its own culture, traditional values and rituals which are identical symbols for them. Exactly same arab territory which has around 14 countries has some unique traditions, cultural appropriation and living styles. Lot of things are common in these countries in which there hostess capacity is remarkable.

Arabic Coffee or Qahwa is traditional trade mark of Arab people. It is not only a drink for them , it is a source of sitting together, communication, sharing the things like stories, listing the gossips like news and melt the giggles.

Arabic Coffee has rich history which touches a story of a shepherd Kamel. Kamel is the known person who invented Qahwa in 16th century in Yemen. Some historians took it to Ethiopian hills which is not authentic. Kamel brings some beans of coffee tree for his chest infection which surprisingly gives him some relief. So for long time coffee or Qahwa remains a remedy for cold infections. Then literally as world expand, population grow and lifestyle changes by oil production, The Qahwa gets deeper roots in Arab society and become a symbol of hospitality.

Traditional iconic symbol.

In 19th century the coffee reach in central Arab countries through traders and slowly becomes symbol of Arabs life. A symbol of hostess and pride, a symbol of happiness and gesture, a symbol of open hearting and welcoming.

Settlement in Ritual.

Lot of things becoming the part of our life by time passing and Qahwa is part of Arab sitting rooms, bars , rest areas, restaurants and stadiums. Everyone is fan of it and they feel proud to serve any guest by Qahwa

Preparation.

The fresh grind of coffee beans and use instantly for Qahwa gives best taste. It has three kinds like brown, black and Yemeni ( reddish). It's preparation is so simple. Boil the water , add ground beans and crushed cardamom and let it Cook on medium heat. When one fourth of water soaked add saffron, cinnamon and rosewater and boil it further till the original water remains half. Blend of taste ready to sip and serve.

Physical Stimulation.

It is proved clinically that coffee stimulates the energy, reduce the fats and enhance the mental capability. It stimulates the metabolism and keeps blood flow circulation in normal. So Qahwa not only the symbol of tradition , it is source of vitality and health too.

Presentation.

Arab people never serve the coffee alone to the guests nor drink themselves. Also never serve them directly in cups.Normally by tradition they present it in long flask bottle which is they called "Dallah". Always keep small tiny cups to pour. According to their mentality, they feel more happiness to serve their guest again and again. Then sweet like buqlawa, khubz also comes along. The most favourite item on tray always Dates. Fresh Dates or processed ones both must get beauty of the trays.

Not only for guests, they drink coffee or Qahwa themselves too more then any beverage.

Note: The article has been published on Bulb as well.

That's all for today. Like, upvote and leave comment for feedback.

Cheers,

Amjad.