Arabic coffee with cardamom for occasions - Ahwa sada

Arabic coffee with cardamom - Ahwa Sada for special occasions

Arabic coffee with cardamom, known as Ahwa Sada, is more than just a drink. It is a tradition, a meeting of souls and flavors, a ritual that brings people together in the most beautiful moments of life. Today, throughout the Muslim world, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated, a holiday that marks the end of the month of Ramadan fasting. On this occasion, I invite you to discover the art of preparing this special coffee, a symbol of hospitality and joy.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 3 cups of water
- 3/4 cup of coarsely ground coffee (I recommend Yemeni green coffee for an authentic taste)
- 1/4 cup of coarsely ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon of saffron (optional, for an extra flavor and color)

A brief history of Arabic coffee
The habit of consuming coffee has its roots in the Middle East, where it evolved from a simple drink to a symbol of social gatherings. Coffee is more than just a beverage - it is a welcoming ritual, a way to bring people together. Here, coffee is served on special occasions such as weddings, graduation ceremonies, or funerals, and is always accompanied by an atmosphere of respect and hospitality.

Step by step for perfect coffee
1. Boil the water: Start by bringing 3 cups of water to a boil in a metal pot. Use a quality container to ensure the water reaches boiling point evenly.

2. Add coffee and cardamom: When the water starts to boil, add 3/4 cup of coarsely ground coffee and 1/4 cup of ground cardamom. These ingredients are essential for achieving the characteristic flavor of Ahwa Sada.

3. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes. This process will concentrate the flavors and create a rich and aromatic coffee.

4. Prepare the thermos: Once the coffee is ready, remove it from the heat and prepare a special thermos to keep it warm. Add a tablespoon of ground cardamom to the thermos before pouring in the coffee. This will enhance the aroma and add extra flavor.

5. Serving: The coffee is served very hot, in special cups without handles. Fill the cup halfway, and if you desire more, gently shake the cup to indicate this to the hosts.

Practical tips
- Choose the coffee carefully: Use high-quality green coffee, preferably from Yemen, to achieve an authentic and intense flavor.
- Cardamom: Coarsely grinding the cardamom is essential to avoid an overpowering flavor that can become overwhelming.
- Saffron: Although optional, adding saffron will give the coffee a distinctive hue and a sophisticated taste.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use roasted coffee? It is recommended to use coarsely ground coffee to achieve a better-defined flavor. Roasted coffee can be too fine and will produce a more bitter drink.
- How can I customize the recipe? If you want a sweeter coffee, you can add sugar during preparation. You can also experiment with other spices, such as cinnamon or cloves.

Nutritional benefits
Arabic coffee with cardamom is not only delicious but also beneficial. Coffee is known for its antioxidant properties, and cardamom adds digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits. This combination makes Ahwa Sada not only a pleasant drink but also nutritious.

Possible variations
- Ahwa Ariha: Add sugar for a sweet coffee.
- Ahwa Mazboot: Provide moderate sweetness by gradually adding sugar to adjust the taste.
- Ahwa Ziyada: For those who prefer very sweet coffee, add generous amounts of sugar.

Serving suggestions
Ahwa Sada is usually served with halva or roasted nuts, which perfectly complement the coffee's flavor. Additionally, a cup of green tea or herbal tea can be an excellent choice to accompany this drink.

In conclusion, preparing Arabic coffee with cardamom - Ahwa Sada is an experience that blends tradition with culinary art. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe will bring you a taste of the rich culture of the Middle East. So, get ready to enjoy every sip and share this tradition with your loved ones!