Traditional Egyptian Coffee & Herbal Infusions

Traditional Egyptian Coffee & Herbal Infusions

Egyptian coffee, known as “Ahwa,” is an essential part of daily life, often served strong and flavored with cardamom. It is brewed slowly and enjoyed in small sips, creating a moment of relaxation and social connection. In addition to coffee, Egypt is famous for its herbal infusions such as anise tea, mint tea, and chamomile, all valued for their soothing and digestive benefits. Whether enjoying a bold cup of coffee in a traditional café or a calming herbal drink at home, these beverages are deeply woven into Egyptian culture and hospitality.

1. Egyptian Coffee (Ahwa)

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 heaping teaspoon finely ground Arabic coffee
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Sugar to taste (optional)

 

Instructions:

  1. In a small pot (called a “kanaka” or “cezve”), add water, coffee, cardamom, and sugar (if using).
  2. Stir well and place over low heat.
  3. Let the coffee heat slowly until foam starts to form. Do not let it boil.
  4. Remove from heat just before boiling and let the foam settle.
  5. Return to heat and allow it to foam again, repeating the process once more.
  6. Pour gently into a small coffee cup, allowing the grounds to settle before drinking.

 

2. Hibiscus Tea (Karkadeh)

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
  • Juice of half a lemon (optional, for extra tanginess)

 

Instructions:

  1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
  2. Add the dried hibiscus flowers and simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and strain the tea.
  4. Stir in sugar while the tea is warm until fully dissolved.
  5. For a cold version, let it cool and refrigerate for at least an hour.
  6. Serve over ice with fresh mint leaves for garnish.

 

3. Anise Tea (Yansoon)

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon anise seeds
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

 

Instructions:

  1. Boil water in a small pot.
  2. Add the anise seeds and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Strain into a cup and sweeten with honey if desired.
  4. Enjoy warm for a soothing effect.

 

4. Chamomile Tea (Baboonaj)

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

 

Instructions:

  1. Place chamomile flowers in a cup.
  2. Pour boiling water over them and let steep for 5 minutes.
  3. Strain and add honey if desired.

 

5. Carob Drink (Kharoob)

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried carob pods, crushed
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)

 

Instructions:

  1. Toast the carob pods in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant.
  2. Boil 4 cups of water and add the toasted carob.
  3. Simmer for 20 minutes, then strain.
  4. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
  5. Serve warm or chilled over ice.

 

6. Sahlab (Warm Milk & Starch Drink)

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon crushed nuts (pistachios or almonds, for garnish)

 

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in a few tablespoons of cold milk.
  2. Heat the remaining milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Add sugar and vanilla, stirring constantly.
  4. Slowly pour in the cornstarch mixture, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
  5. Keep stirring until thickened to a creamy consistency.
  6. Pour into cups and garnish with cinnamon and crushed nuts.

 

Where to Find Egyptian Coffee & Herbal Teas

 

  • Local Egyptian markets and spice shops.
  • Online stores offering authentic Egyptian beverages.
  • Health food stores with natural and organic products.

 

Enjoy the authentic taste of Egyptian coffee and herbal infusions! ☕🍵🌿😋