The Culture Of Gahwa Coffee In Qatar

Qahwa coffee, much like the tales of Arabian nights, transports you to the vibrant markets and serene oases of the Middle East. It conjures up images of captivating stories, ancient pyramids, and delightful culinary experiences. This coffee encapsulates the essence of Arabia with its intriguing blend of flavors and spices.

The culture of Gahwa coffee in Qatar is deeply rooted in tradition and hospitality. We will guide you through selecting the perfect coffee beans and explore the secrets of achieving a perfect Qahwa cup. Read our Arabic coffee recipe, where you’ll discover Qahwa ingredients and how to make this perfect drink that even earned a place on UNESCO’s heritage list!

What Is Qahwa Coffee?

At its most basic, Qahwa coffee (or kahwa, qahwa Arabiyye) consists of coarsely ground coffee from green or lightly roasted beans and water brewed in a traditional Arabic coffee pot (dallah).

Turki Alsagoor, the owner of the specialty coffee shop Flat Wardo in Saudi Arabia, clarifies that "Qahwa" is the Arabic term for coffee, typically referring to traditional Arabic coffee. While it shares some similarities with Turkish coffee in its preparation and serving, Qahwa has its unique distinctions. Traditionally, it is brewed in a dallah, an Arabic coffee pot, and boiled for approximately 20 minutes. It is then served in small, handleless cups. The server pours the Qahwa from a height while standing, while guests, often seated on the floor, receive it. This ceremonial preparation is meticulously performed to make guests feel welcome. The sound of Qahwa being poured serves as a cultural signal for guests to relax.

Traditional Arabic coffee jugs or Gahwa in Dubai  

What is Qahwa made of?

Qahwa Arabic coffee is brewed with gently roasted green coffee beans and cardamom and is typically served with something sweet, such as dates, candied fruit, dried fruit, or almonds. Other Arabic coffee additives include cardamom, saffron, cinnamon, and rose water. The coffee is brewed with water rather than milk.

Since traditional Qahwa is made with lightly roasted beans, it would be best to grind your beans if you want an authentic taste. Because gently toasted green beans are not widely accessible, you can purchase unroasted beans and grind them yourself.

What is the difference between coffee and Qahwa?

Similarly to the coffee called Mirra, Turkish coffee requires an extremely fine grind, almost powdery in texture. Turkish coffee has a powerful, forceful flavor, but Qahwa is more aromatic, with a gentler taste and a lighter body. The fundamental difference between Turkish coffee and Qahwa is how they are prepared. Qahwa must be brewed in a Dallah (traditional Arabic pot). Then, boil it for ten minutes and let it sit for five minutes. Finally, strain the liquid and pour it into Fenjals. Brew Turkish coffee in cezve pots and serve it.

What does Qahwa coffee taste like?

The roasted green beans in Qahwa give it an earthy and nutty flavor. The beans might provide a somewhat bitter flavor. This delicious coffee is made with spices like cardamom and saffron. Cardamom imparts a herbaceous and lemony flavor to Qahwa, while saffron adds a flowery flavor. Qahwa has a smoother, lighter texture than other coffees, particularly milk-based ones.

The roasted green beans in Qahwa give it an earthy and nutty flavor 

Is Arabic Qahwa good for weight loss?

This Arabic coffee recipe may undoubtedly aid with weight reduction. It has a lot of caffeine but little carbohydrates. Finally, consuming Qahwa might help to control your hunger and increase your metabolism. This, in turn, helps people lose weight.

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Why Is Qahwa Coffee Popular In Many Middle Eastern Countries?

Qahwa, which is said to have been brought to the Muslim world from Ethiopia via Yemen as early as the 1400s, has traditions that differ greatly from modern Western coffee customs. So, what makes this Arabic coffee a favorite drink in many Middle Eastern countries and beyond? The answer lies in its earthy and nutty flavor.

Unlike Turkish coffee, preparing Qahwa saada (sugar-free Qahwa) involves skipping the sugar. This coffee is rich and provides a heady experience. Additionally, it lingers on the tongue, revealing hidden spicy and bitter notes.

However, not all coffee enthusiasts appreciate the strong, Robusta-like flavor of Qahwa. As a result, most Arab countries enhance this coffee with spices and aromatics. The most commonly added spice is cardamom, but saffron, cloves, cinnamon, and rose petals or water are also popular regional choices, creating a unique flavor experience.

The addition of spices gives Qahwa its distinctive aromatic, floral, and spicy profile. Nonetheless, adding sugar is uncommon, as it is more a matter of personal preference, similar to how sugar is added to coffee in the West and other parts of the world.

Qahwa coffee is very popular in many Middle Eastern countries   

The Art Of Making Arabic Qahwa Coffee

Although Arabic coffee is available in pre-mixed powder form, it is predominantly consumed by the younger generation who prefer convenience. Conversely, older individuals view instant coffee as disrespectful, as the coffee-making rituals are deeply valued in Qatari households, where tribes and families often craft their signature brews.

High-quality green coffee beans are sourced from wholesale shops, many of which are located in Souq Waqif, alongside traditional ingredients such as saffron, cardamom, cloves, and dried Shaina leaves (black stone flower). Saffron, being the most costly ingredient, is carefully chosen or imported from Iran. While retailers offer roasting and grinding services upon request, many prefer to roast their beans at home. Additional ingredients are added in varying proportions, reflecting familial preferences. The color of the coffee also varies, with some favoring lighter hues and others opting for darker tones.

Traditional Arabic coffee set with mug, dallah, cups and plates

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How To Make Qahwa Coffee?

Step 1: Roast the coffee beans in a mihmas (roasting spoon) over a flame until they reach the desired hue. Meanwhile, heat water in a khumrah (large coffee pot).

Step 2: After roasting, cool the beans in a mubarrid (wooden container), then grind them in a hawan (mortar and pestle), occasionally ringing to add a musical touch to the ritual. Ensure the grounds are slightly coarse to prevent residue in the finjan (small cup), or opt for a coffee grinder if preferred.

Step 3: Combine the ground coffee with boiling water in the khumrah, adding ground cardamom and other spices to taste. Let the mixture simmer.

Step 4: Transfer the brewed coffee into a dallah (coffee pot). For authenticity, use an organic sieve woven from palm trees in the spout of the dallah, or a suitable strainer from a local store, while pouring.

Step 5: Serve the coffee in fanajin (tiny cups without handles), known for their traditional use. Enjoy with kholas (dates), favored for their mild toffee flavor. If dates aren't preferred, any sweet accompaniment can complement the coffee's bitterness.

Making traditional coffee Gahwa on Al Hosn Heritage Festival 

Gahwa coffee embodies more than just a beverage; it encapsulates the spirit of Qatari heritage, hospitality, and community. As Qatar continues to embrace its rich cultural traditions amidst globalization, Gahwa stands as a timeless symbol of connection, inviting both locals and visitors alike to savor the flavors and rituals that define its cultural identity.

In essence, the culture of Gahwa coffee in Qatar is not just about brewing a drink but celebrating a heritage that continues to enrich the tapestry of Qatari life.

Apply for a Qatar e-visa today to explore the unique culinary delights this country has to offer. Ensure you meet all the requirements to make your e-visa application process as smooth as possible. Qatar Immigration Services, a trusted provider of premium visa consulting, can assist you in navigating the process with ease.