Coffee is loved by people of all ages and backgrounds, and there are many different ways to make and enjoy it. In addition to being a popular drink, coffee is also an important part of Lebanese culture. In this article, we'll attempt to shed some light on how and when coffee arrived in Lebanon, as well as the different characteristics that make it unique, and how significant it is for Lebanese people and culture.
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Origins
History of Coffee
Coffee is one of the oldest drinks in the world, it was first cultivated in the highlands of Ethiopia, and its long and interesting story starts with a legend about a goatherd named Kaldi or Khalid.
The legend of Kaldi tells the story of a goat herder who discovered the energizing effects of coffee after noticing his goats were behaving oddly after eating the fruit from a coffee shrub.
Intrigued, Kaldi sampled the fruit himself and found he had more energy and focus. He began to experiment with roasting and brewing the beans, and eventually shared his findings with the local monastery. The monks found that coffee helps them stay awake during long hours of prayer, and word of the energizing beverage spread throughout the region.
When did coffee arrive to Lebanon
It's impossible to pinpoint the exact date when coffee arrived in Lebanon, but there is evidence it had its appearance in the Middle East in the middle of the 15th century. There are records showing coffee was roasted and brewed in Sufi monasteries of Yemen.
Yemeni coffee culture disseminated to the north, and it's possible that it traveled throughout the entire Middle East region by the end of the 16th century.
And even if we take the latest possible period and consider the end of the 16th century as when coffee entered Lebanese culture, it's clear that coffee has a long and illustrious history in this region.
Characteristics of Lebanese Coffee
While Lebanese coffee is similar to Turkish or Arabic coffee, it has some characteristics that make it unique and distinctive. Brewing methods are similar in the entire Middle East region, however the preparation of coffee beans is what makes a major difference between these neighboring coffee types.
Beans
Lebanese coffee is typically made with Arabica beans. These beans are known for their delicate flavor and smooth texture. They are also known to have a fruity aroma, which pairs well with the spices that are often used in Lebanese coffee.
The main portion of coffee beans are imported from Brazil, and Lebanon has only a small percentage of local production.
Roast level
Lebanese coffee is unique because of its roast level, in contrast to Turkish coffee it is typically roasted a bit darker. This results in a stronger, more robust flavor that many people enjoy.
Grind size
The grind level of Lebanese coffee is also unique. It is ground much finer than most other types of coffee, which allows for a richer flavor.
Brewing
Coffee culture in Lebanon is rich and diverse. There are many different ways to make and enjoy coffee, and each person has their own preferences. However, there are a few things that are typically found in every cup of coffee made in the country, including freshly roasted coffee beans and aromatic spices like cardamom.
There are two common ways of preparing coffee so called Turkish or Arabic style:
Turkish-style coffee
This type of coffee is made by slowly pouring hot water over finely ground beans and then boiling the mixture until it reaches a thick syrup consistency. The coffee grounds are then traditionally 'fished out' using a special spoon, leaving behind a strong, smooth coffee.
Arabic-style coffee
This type of coffee is made by slowly boiling water with cardamom and other spices until the mixture thickens, then adding fresh ground coffee beans. It should bubble together for a moment once the coffee is added to boiling water.
Coffee culture
Coffee is deeply ingrained in the country's culture. Lebanese people have been drinking coffee for centuries, and it is an essential component of their daily lives to the point that it may be referred to as "a national drink."
When someone invites you into their home, they will often offer you a cup of coffee. This is a sign of warmth and friendship, and it shows that the host wants you to feel welcome and comfortable. Coffee is also often served at social gatherings and meetings, where people come together to share a meal or discuss important issues.
Some people even buy coffee as a way of showing their appreciation to someone they care about, like a friend or co-worker who has been particularly helpful or supportive. Whether it is in the home, at work, or in public, coffee is a symbol of hospitality and goodwill in Lebanon, and it plays an important role in the social and cultural life of the country.
Final thoughts
There are too many reasons to count why coffee is so important to Lebanese people. It is a beverage that is enjoyed by people of all ages and social classes.
Coffee is also a symbolic drink in Lebanese culture. It represents hospitality, friendship, and community, which are all important aspects of life in Lebanon.
Finally, coffee is a way for people to show that they care about each other, and that they are willing to share something special with others.
Check out this article if you want to learn more about What is Lebanese Food.
And you know what dessert compliments Lebanese coffee perfectly??? This recipe for Authentic Lebanese Baklava!
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