The art of making Arabic coffee

Although Arabic coffee can be found pre-mixed in powder form, this is mostly used by the younger generation on the go. An elder will consider the instant form - an insult, since the coffee making ritual is taken very seriously in Qatari households, with tribes and families often creating their own signature recipes.

The best quality green coffee beans are purchased from wholesale shops, many of which can be found  in Souq Waqif, along with the other traditional ingredients : saffron, cardamom, cloves and dried shaiba leaves (black stone flower). Saffron, being the most expensive ingredient, is chosen carefully or sourced from Iran. The retailer can roast and grind the beans if requested but many people choose to do it themselves. Additional ingredients can be added, with ratios varying from family to family. Even the colour of the coffee differs, with some preferring lighter tones and others, darker ones.  To make qahwa like a local, follow the steps below: