If you've ever sat in a traditional majlis in Abu Dhabi, or visited a local cafe in the UAE, chances are you’ve been offered a steaming, golden pot of Arabic coffee poured gracefully into a tiny handleless cup. For newcomers, the first sip can be surprising: spicy, earthy, and unlike the rich bitterness of a regular espresso. So, what makes it taste so different?
In this article, we’ll answer the commonly asked question: “Why does Arabic coffee have a spicy flavor?” and explore what sets it apart from other types of coffee from bean selection to brewing traditions.
What is Arabic Coffee?
Arabic coffee is also known as q)ahwa is a traditional Middle Eastern preparation made using lightly roasted coffee beans and a distinct blend of spices like cardamom, cloves, and saffron. Unlike darker roasts or sugary cafe-style drinks, Arabic coffee focuses on flavor subtleties and cultural tradition.
If you're curious about how Arabic coffee compares to black coffee, check out this detailed blog comparing black coffee vs. Arabic coffee on our site.
Why Does Arabic Coffee Taste Different?
One of the top questions we hear from tourists, expats, and even new customers is:
“Why does Arabic coffee have a spicy flavor?”
The unique taste comes from its blend of spices and light roasting technique. While Western-style coffee tends to focus on deep, smoky, or nutty flavors (often from dark roasted beans), Arabic coffee emphasizes herbal and floral notes.
Here’s why the flavor profile is so unique:
- Cardamom: Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor that dominates the blend.
- Cloves: Offer a warm, earthy tone that deepens the body of the coffee.
- Saffron (optional): Brings a subtle floral and luxurious finish.
- Light-roasted beans: These are not roasted until dark brown or black, so the flavor remains smooth and slightly acidic.
This combination leads to a brew that’s less bitter, more fragrant, and uniquely Middle Eastern.
Is Arabic Coffee Strong or Light?
Despite its intense flavors, Arabic coffee is surprisingly light in caffeine compared to espresso or black coffee. Because of the light roast and the higher water-to-coffee ratio, the final cup is mild on the stomach which is why it’s commonly consumed multiple times a day, even at night.
Unlike regular coffee, which often uses sugar and milk, Arabic coffee is served without sugar, often alongside sweet dates to balance the palate naturally.
How is Arabic Coffee Served in the UAE?
In the UAE, offering Arabic coffee isn’t just about the drink it’s a timeless gesture of welcome and hospitality. Whether you’re at a family gathering or entering a high-end office lobby, you might be welcomed with a traditional dallah (Arabic coffee pot) and small cups called finjaan.
Here are some regional customs you may notice:
- The server always uses the right hand to pour and serve.
- The guest should accept with the right hand and gently shake the cup after finishing to indicate they’re done.
- Serving coffee with dates or dried fruits is almost mandatory.
Can You Make Arabic Coffee at Home?
Absolutely. While brewing traditional Arabic coffee might seem intimidating at first, it’s quite easy once you have the right tools and quality ingredients. At Auro Coffee, we offer authentic Arabic coffee beans and spice blends that let you bring the tradition home with ease.
Whether you're using a dallah or a simple pot on your stove, the magic is in the method and the freshness of ingredients.
Experience Authentic Arabic Coffee with Auro
At Auro Coffee, we believe that every cup should tell a story and there's no story more flavorful than that of Arabic coffee. Our beans are sourced from premium farms and blended with authentic Middle Eastern spices, ensuring that every sip is smooth, aromatic, and true to tradition.
Whether you're ordering for your home, cafe, or office, you can trust that Auro Coffee is the best choice for quality and authenticity.
Contact us for bulk orders and elevate your coffee experience with premium Arabic blends today.
Final Thoughts
So, why does Arabic coffee taste different from other coffees?
It’s not just about the beans it’s about centuries of tradition, the warm spices, and the way it brings people together. With a lighter roast, no sugar, and a bouquet of aromatic spices, Arabic coffee is a drink that connects the past with the present.
Next time you're craving something rich in culture and taste, skip the espresso and pour yourself a cup of qahwa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why does Arabic coffee taste different from regular coffee?
Arabic coffee is made with lightly roasted beans and delicately spiced with cardamom, cloves, and occasionally saffron, creating a warm, aromatic flavor. Unlike strong, dark-roasted or espresso-based coffees, it’s lower in caffeine and traditionally served without sugar offering a completely different and refined experience.
2. What gives Arabic coffee its spicy flavor?
The spicy flavor comes from traditional ingredients like cardamom, cloves, and occasionally saffron. These spices are either ground with the coffee or added during the brewing process to create its signature taste.
3. Is Arabic coffee stronger than espresso?
No. Despite its bold flavors, Arabic coffee is actually lighter in caffeine compared to espresso. It’s brewed with more water and less coffee, and the beans are lightly roasted, resulting in a smoother, milder drink.
4. Can I make Arabic coffee at home without a dallah?
Yes. While using a dallah (traditional Arabic coffee pot) is ideal, you can also use a regular saucepan to brew Arabic coffee. Just make sure to use high-quality, light-roasted Arabic beans and authentic spices like those available at Auro Coffee.
5. Why is Arabic coffee served with dates?
Dates balance the slightly bitter and spicy taste of Arabic coffee, offering a natural sweetener without adding sugar to the drink. It’s a cultural tradition across the UAE and many Gulf countries.
6. Where can I buy authentic Arabic coffee in the UAE?
You can buy premium Arabic coffee beans and blends fromAuro Coffee, your trusted source for quality, freshness, and authenticity. We also supply to cafes and offer bulk orderingoptions.