5 Delectable Middle Eastern Coffee Blends

Coffee enthusiasts savor a diverse range of coffee preparations worldwide, encompassing flavors that range from sweet to creamy, and even robust and bitter. In the Middle East, there exists a fascinating world of coffee blends, each distinguished by its unique taste and preparation. From Turkish Coffee to refreshing sweet brews, Middle Eastern coffee culture offers a captivating journey for your taste buds.

As Middle East Eye reports, Middle Eastern coffee blends are renowned for their exceptional and distinct flavors. Here are five Middle Eastern coffee blends that promise a delightful coffee experience:

Turkish Coffee: A Tradition of Richness

Turkish coffee stands out for its distinctive brewing technique. This coffee is meticulously prepared in a traditional pot known as a “cezve” or “ibrik.” It involves simmering the coffee over a low flame until it froths and nearly reaches boiling point.

This method results in a strong and distinctive flavor. Turkish coffee is celebrated for its richness and can be savored with or without sugar. It boasts a dark hue with a thick layer of foam, offering a robust, strong, and somewhat bitter taste. Traditionally, it pairs excellently with dates or Turkish Delight.

Arabic Coffee: Fragrant and Spiced

Arabic coffee, often referred to as “qahwa” or “gahwa,” is a renowned Middle Eastern coffee blend found in countries like Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Iraq. This coffee is served with a blend of aromatic spices, including cardamom, saffron, cloves, and cinnamon.

Arabic coffee delivers a sweet flavor profile with a unique hint of spices. It is characterized by a distinctive greenish-brown color, achieved through the light roasting of green coffee beans. Arabic coffee is typically served without added sweeteners.

Jabana Coffee: Sudan’s Signature Brew

Coffee enthusiasts in Sudan have their cherished brew known as “jabana.” Jabana coffee is crafted from raw green coffee beans. Roasted manually over charcoal stoves. Following roasting, the coffee is transferred to a steel or wooden mortar for fine grinding.

The coffee grounds are then brewed with boiling water and infused with spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom. This coffee blend boasts a thick consistency akin to Turkish coffee but distinguishes itself with the addition of ginger, offering a unique twist.

Mazagran: Algerian Iced Coffee

Mazagran introduces a distinctive twist to Middle Eastern coffee—it is served as iced coffee, making it exceptionally popular during scorching summer days. Originating from Algeria, this coffee blend is celebrated for its sweet flavor profile.

Legend has it that Mazagran has been enjoyed since 1837 when French colonial troops consumed it at Fort Mazargan in northwest Algeria. The brew typically includes a combination of coffee, sugar, and water, served over ice for a refreshing and sweet coffee experience.

Nous Nous: Moroccan Blend of Halves

Morocco presents “Nous Nous,” a coffee blend that translates to “half-and-half.” It is traditionally served in a glass, featuring equal parts milk and espresso.

According to certain customs, Nous Nous is predominantly ordered by women, while Moroccan men tend to favor “kafe noir” or a small cup of espresso. This coffee blend offers a balanced and milder coffee experience, perfect for those who appreciate a creamy touch in their coffee.

Exploring Middle Eastern coffee culture not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides insight into the rich traditions and history of these nations. Whether you relish the robust bitterness of Turkish coffee or the sweet, spiced aroma of Arabic coffee, Middle Eastern coffee blends promise a captivating and delicious journey.