In the UAE, coffee is about welcome. A cup of gahwa, poured from a dallah into a small finjan and served with dates, is one of the oldest forms of hospitality in the Gulf. Its flavour comes from a few Arabic spices. Here is what they are and how to use them.
The main Arabic spices in coffee
- Cardamom: the heart of Arabic coffee. Green cardamom gives a fresh, floral, slightly citrus aroma. Many families add it generously.
- Saffron: a few threads add a golden colour and a gentle, honeyed aroma. It is often kept for guests and special occasions.
- Cinnamon: warm and sweet, used in some family blends and in many spiced drinks.
- Ginger: adds a little warmth and bite.
- Cloves: strong and aromatic, used in small amounts in some recipes.
Every family has its own mix. Some prefer cardamom only, others add saffron and cloves, and recipes change from one Emirate to the next.
How to make simple spiced Arabic coffee at home
- Bring about 500 ml of water to the boil in a small pot or dallah.
- Add 2 tablespoons of lightly roasted, ground Arabic coffee. Simmer gently for about 10 minutes.
- Take it off the heat and add 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom and a pinch of saffron. Add a little ground ginger or a clove if you like.
- Let it rest for a few minutes so the grounds settle.
- Pour slowly into small cups and serve with dates.
Traditional gahwa is served without sugar, and the dates bring the sweetness. If you prefer it sweeter, stir in a little raw honey once the coffee has cooled slightly.
A shortcut: coffee, honey and Arabic spices in one jar
If you want the flavour without the brewing, try Cafémiel Arabic Spices. It blends Arabica coffee with White Mountain honey and Arabic spices: cardamom, cinnamon, ginger and saffron. The result is a smooth, mousse-like mix. Add one spoonful to hot water, stir and drink. You need no coffee machine and no measuring.
How to store Arabic spices
Keep whole spices and ground spices in airtight jars, away from heat and light. Whole cardamom pods keep their aroma longer than ground cardamom, so grind them just before use if you can. Store saffron in a small, dark, airtight container.
Frequently asked questions
What spices are in Arabic coffee?
Cardamom is the main one. Saffron, cloves, ginger and cinnamon are also common, depending on the family recipe.
Is Arabic coffee the same as Turkish coffee?
No. Arabic coffee uses lightly roasted beans and is spiced, usually with cardamom. Turkish coffee uses dark-roasted, very finely ground beans and is often served with sugar.
Can I add honey to Arabic coffee?
Yes. Stir in a little raw honey once the coffee has cooled slightly, so you keep the honey's flavour.
How do I use Cafémiel Arabic Spices?
Add one spoonful to a cup of hot water and stir until it dissolves.
Taste Arabic spices, coffee and honey in one cup with Cafémiel Arabic Spices.
