Qahwa is more than coffee in the Gulf. It is the first thing offered to a guest and the cup that opens every majlis. The good news is that it is easy to make at home. You need a pot and a few minutes and the right coffee.
What makes qahwa different
Arabic qahwa uses lightly roasted Arabica coffee. The light roast keeps the cup golden and soft instead of dark and bitter. It is spiced with cardamom and often saffron. It is boiled and simmered rather than filtered. It is served without milk or sugar because dates bring the sweetness.
What you need
- 3 tablespoons of finely ground Arabic coffee
- 500ml of water
- A dallah or any small pot
- A fine strainer
- Small finjan cups
- Dates to serve
Our Shorouq Arabic Qahwa and Layal Qahwa already come blended with cardamom and finely ground. There is nothing to measure or grind.
How to brew it
- Boil the water. Pour 500ml of water into your dallah or pot and bring it to a boil.
- Add the coffee. Add 3 tablespoons of qahwa and bring it back to a gentle boil.
- Simmer. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. The longer it simmers the deeper the flavour.
- Let it settle. Take it off the heat and wait a minute or two so the grounds sink to the bottom.
- Strain and pour. Pour slowly through a strainer into the dallah or a flask.
How to serve it
Qahwa is poured into small finjan cups and filled only a little at a time. It is usually served with dates. Guests are offered more until they gently shake the cup to say they have had enough.
Which qahwa to choose
Shorouq is made with real saffron and cardamom. It brews a rich golden cup and is best enjoyed without sugar so the saffron comes through.
Layal is a traditional cardamom qahwa. It is smooth and classic and the one most homes in the Gulf grow up with. Add a pinch of saffron or a drop of rosewater if you like.
Both are light roasted and finely ground and ready for the dallah. Browse the full Arabic Qahwa collection with delivery across the UAE.
Quick answers
Can I make qahwa without a dallah?
Yes. Any small pot works. Serve it from a flask to keep it hot.
Should I add sugar?
Traditional qahwa has no sugar. Serve it with dates instead.
How long does brewed qahwa stay good?
Keep it in a flask and drink it the same day for the best taste.
