☕ Traditional coffee - "ahwa turki"
The most popular way to make coffee in Egypt is Turkish coffee, which is called "ahwa turki" here. It is prepared in a jezve (a long-handled coffee maker), always over low heat, with a lot of sugar. In coffee shops, you will definitely be asked how much sweetness you want:

Sada - no sugar

Mazbut - medium sweet

Ziyada - very sweet

Coffee is not filtered, so there is always grounds at the bottom of the cup. By the way, it is from this grounds that Egyptian women often tell fortunes, just like we do at home 😊

🌆 Coffee shops as social clubs
In every city, on every street, you will find a "kahwa" - a traditional Egyptian cafe. This is not just a place to drink coffee, but a real social center. Men (mostly men) come there to play dominoes, watch football, chat, or just relax with a hookah and a cup of coffee.

By the way, I often visit such places, and although there is a lot of attention, the attitude is always friendly. Egyptians believe that coffee unites people.

🏠 Coffee at home is a sign of respect
If you are invited to an Egyptian home, you will almost always be offered either tea or coffee. And it's not nice to refuse. Coffee is a part of hospitality, a sign of respect for the guest. It is often served with dates or sweets. Here I felt the real warmth of the Eastern tradition.

🛍️ Where to buy coffee?
Egyptian supermarkets have everything from Italian espresso to local roasted beans. But the best part is the markets! There you can find freshly roasted coffee, which will be ground in front of you, with cardamom or other spices added - and this is a completely different level of enjoyment!

Coffee in Egypt is not just a drink, but a part of culture, a lifestyle, a ritual. It starts the morning and ends evenings with friends.

Have you ever tried Egyptian-style coffee? If you are here, you should definitely try it. And take your time. This coffee has all the unhurriedness, depth and sincerity of the East.

With love,
Natalia from Egypt