Tea and coffee have always been favourite welcome drinks across the globe. Over the years, they have also become much-preferred thank you gifts in many parts of the world. One such popular and traditional beverage, from the national capital of UAE – Abu Dhabi, is Gahwa Coffee. Also known as ‘Qahwa Coffee’ or ‘welcoming beverage’, the drink is served especially when welcoming guests. For years, Gahwa coffee has been a symbol of hospitality, sociability and generosity. It is a common sight to find this coffee during breakfast, afternoon drinks and even during the night. Keep scrolling to know more about this favourite drink of the middle-eastern countries.
Cultural Significance of Gawha Coffee
Gahwa coffee holds deep cultural significance in the UAE, symbolising hospitality, sociability, and generosity. As a traditional beverage, it plays a vital role in social and ceremonial occasions, often served to guests as a welcoming gesture. The ritual of preparing and serving this coffee reflects the rich heritage and values of Emirati society. It is commonly enjoyed during family gatherings, celebrations, and important events, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. By offering Gahwa, Emiratis express respect and honour towards their guests, reinforcing social bonds and upholding age-old traditions.
History of Gahwa Coffee
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According to the legends, the shepherds of Arabia were the first to discover this coffee. They had goats that would chew certain berries and turn more active. Later, they started using cherries to prepare energy drinks.
As per UNESCO, Gahwa was first found in the Arabian peninsula. More so, in order to preserve this culturally unique and important drink, the governing body added this coffee to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2015.
The journey of Gahwa coffee from the Arabian Peninsula to becoming a symbol of hospitality in the UAE is fascinating. Arabian traders introduced coffee to various regions, and it soon became integral to social and ceremonial occasions. Coffee houses, known as “majlis,” became popular gathering spots for discussions and sharing Gahwa coffee.
Historical Figures and Anecdotes related to Gahwa Coffee
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father, often served Gahwa to guests as a symbol of hospitality, while during tribal disputes, leaders shared a cup to signify peace. Traditionally, green coffee beans are roasted, ground, and boiled with water and spices like cardamom and saffron, served in handleless cups known as “finjan,” often accompanied by dates. Gahwa remains a daily ritual in Emirati culture, symbolising warmth and hospitality, from its origins with Arabian shepherds to UNESCO recognition, embodying the UAE’s tradition and hospitality.
More About Gahwa Coffee
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A famous Arabian cuisine, Gahwa coffee is often served with dates and in a special pot known as ‘Dallah’. The serving cups are small and have no handles. You are certain to find Gahwa at most occasions and events. Also, it is consumed during Ramadan after breaking the fast (Iftar).
Cultural Practices:
Gahwa is steeped in cultural practices, with a meticulous brewing process involving roasting green coffee beans and adding spices like cardamom and saffron. Serving Gahwa is an art, poured from the traditional Dallah into small, handleless cups known as “finjan,” symbolising generosity.
Symbolism:
Gahwa holds deep symbolism in Emirati culture, representing social bonding and hospitality. Sharing Gahwa fosters connections and strengthens relationships, symbolising warmth and camaraderie. It plays a central role in Emirati social customs, embodying the spirit of generosity and community.
Benefits of Gahwa coffee
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Other than its yummy taste, Gahwa coffee contains several health benefits and therefore, it is one of the most amazing Dubai gifts. The health benefits are primarily due to the Arabic coffee beans that contain anti-inflammatory properties. Altogether, the coffee is a lot more than its looks. Take a look at some of its proven benefits:
Health Energy Drink – It provides instant relief from tiredness and fatigue given the presence of healthy nutrients and elements. Your body and mind will feel energised and active instantly.
Improves Digestion – Gahwa coffee aids in digestive issues such as constipation. It cleanses the digestive system and boosts metabolism.
Strengthen the Immune System – The presence of Saffron in Gahwa is a rich source of Riboflavin and Vitamin B2. It strengthens the immune system and keeps the body healthy.
Releases Stress – The coffee is highly efficient in improving mood, concentration and relieving stress. It is proven to detox the chemicals we consume via our food and drinks and make us feel refreshed. You will also feel the activation of good feeling chemicals such as oxytocin, endorphins and serotonin.
Keeps Skin Healthy – Since Gahwa coffee carries a high amount of antioxidants, it is helpful in treating skin infections, acne, dryness, etc. The almonds and walnuts added provide nourishment and give a glow to the skin.
Lowers the Risks of High Calories – As this coffee can be served with or without sugar (generally without sugar), it automatically lowers the risk of high calories. If you have got a sweet tooth, you can add other natural sweeteners such as honey, dried cherries or raisins.
Nutritional Information: Gahwa coffee boasts a rich nutritional profile, offering essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants vital for overall well-being.
Comparison with Other Coffees: Gahwa coffee stands out for its unique health benefits compared to other popular types of coffee, offering a rich blend of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and immune-boosting nutrients.
How to Make Gahwa Coffee?
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Making Gahwa coffee is very easy. Follow the method given below:
Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 litres of water, coffee beans, 1 tablespoon of cardamom pods, and a pinch of saffron.
Method: Take a pan and dry roast cardamom pods with coffee beans. Once they are roasted, let them cool and pass them through a coffee grinder. Next, take a pot and bring the water to boil and add the coffee mix prepared. Throw in a pinch of saffron too. Bring the water to a boil and then let the coffee simmer for 5-10 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
We hope you would be well-acquainted with the significance of this interesting tradition of Arab culture. Do note that it is not characterised by the coffee beans but by preparation. You are free to use any type of finely ground beans.
