A Journey in a Cup: Secrets of the Most Famous Drinks in Our Arab World
Have you ever imagined that the cup of coffee or glass of tea you sip carries behind it a history of travel and stories of generosity? In our Arab world, drinks are not merely liquids to quench thirst — they are a "language" of welcome and an expression of identity.
Today, we'll take you on a quick tour through the Gulf coffee pots and Moroccan tea kettles, to discover together what Arabs drink!
The Arabian Gulf: A Symphony of Cardamom and Saffron
We begin in the Arabian Peninsula, where hospitality is never complete without Arabic coffee — "Al-Shaqra".
What sets it apart: Its light, golden color due to light roasting, and its bold cardamom flavor.
Its rituals: It is poured from a "dallah" and served in small cups that are never filled to the brim (a sign that the guest is always welcome to more cups).
The perfect companion: Premium dates.
The Maghreb: The Art of "Al-Rezza" and Green Tea
If we head west toward Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria, we'll find "Atay" — mint tea — reigning supreme.
The secret is in the pour: Moroccans are famous for pouring tea from a great height to create a rich foam called "Al-Rezza," which is a sign of the tea's quality and the host's generosity.
The taste: A refreshing blend of green tea and fresh mint with plenty of sugar.
The Levant: The Magic of Herbs and Bitter Coffee
In Damascus, Beirut, and Amman, drinks reflect the nature of the lush land:
Levantine Herbal Infusion (Zhourat): It is the "soul's remedy" — a blend of chamomile, damask rose, and anise. A warm drink that brings calm.
Black Coffee (Sadda): Strong, black, and very concentrated. Served on major occasions, it is considered a symbol of nobility and dignity.
Egypt and Sudan: Kings of Refreshment
Here we find drinks that suit the heat of the weather and the bustle of daily life:
Hibiscus (Karkade): The "joker" drink — enjoyed hot to soothe the nerves or ice-cold to quench thirst in the height of summer.
Koshary Tea: In Egypt, it is the drink that sets the mood after every meal.
Iraq: The Irresistible "Istikan"
You cannot visit Baghdad without falling in love with cardamom-spiced tea (Al-Muhayyal).
The slow brew: Iraqis let the tea simmer slowly until it becomes dark and strong, then add cardamom pods that give it an unforgettable aroma.
Arab Drinks Etiquette
In the Gulf: Don't forget to shake your cup left and right if you don't want any more coffee.
In Morocco: Never refuse the first glass of tea — it is considered the ultimate gesture of welcome.
In Egypt: If someone asks you to have tea "on white water," it means you are a very dear guest and it is being specially prepared just for you.
Now… Tell Us
What is the drink that represents "home" for you? And is there an unusual drink from your country that we haven't mentioned on the list? Share your stories with us on Pleny!
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