Saudi Coffee (Qahwa) is a symbol of hospitality. It is yellowish-brown, spiced with cardamom and saffron, and unsweetened.
The Ritual
- Right Hand: ALWAYS accept and return the cup with your right hand. Using the left is disrespectful.
- Dates First: Eat a date first to sweeten your mouth, then sip the coffee.
- The Shake:
- Want more? Just hand the cup back to the server. They will keep pouring.
- Finished? Shake the cup gently from side to side before handing it back. This signals "I am done, thank you."
- Quantity: Cups are only filled 1/3rd full (to keep it hot and allow for many refills). Don't ask for a full cup.
