The trick to a good cup of Arabic coffee is half ingredients and half technique. Fresh coffee strained and poured onto fresh ground cardamom makes a fragrant cup of Joe.
3 cups water
2 tablespoons Arabic coffee grounds
3 tablespoons ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, optional
Bring the water to a boil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the coffee to the water and mix well. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the coffee simmer just below a boil for 5 minutes. Do not stir.
Place the cardamom in a kettle or other pan. Strain the coffee through a layer of coffee filters into the kettle. Add the saffron to the kettle. Heat on low heat for 1 minute then serve.
Use freshly ground coffee beans for the best flavor and aroma.
Adjust the amount of cardamom to taste, as it can vary.
Avoid boiling the coffee, as it can affect the taste and texture.
Rinse the coffee pot or kettle with hot water before brewing to remove any residue.
Recycle used coffee grounds for composting or as a natural scrub for cleaning.
Try adding a touch of rose water or orange blossom water for a fragrant twist.
Arabic coffee is a traditional coffee preparation method enjoyed in Middle Eastern and North African countries. It is brewed with a mix of coffee and spices, such as cardamom.
For authentic Arabic coffee, use specifically ground Arabic coffee beans, which are light to medium roasted and finely ground.
Yes, saffron is optional for an additional layer of flavor and aroma, but the coffee will still taste delicious without it.
Use a fine-mesh strainer lined with coffee filters to strain the brewed coffee and remove any grounds or sediment for a smooth cup.
Traditional Arabic coffee is brewed on the stovetop, but you may use a coffee maker if you prefer.
It's best to drink Arabic coffee when freshly brewed for the best flavor, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated as needed.
Arabic coffee is traditionally served hot, in small cups, as a welcoming gesture to guests or to enjoy during social gatherings.
You can adjust the coffee to water ratio for a stronger or milder brew.
Pan: For boiling water and simmering the coffee grounds.
Kettle: Used for heating the brewed coffee mixture.
Coffee Filters: To strain the brewed coffee and separate it from the grounds, preventing any gritty texture in the final beverage.
Measuring Spoons: To accurately measure the ground cardamom and saffron.
Stove or Hot Plate: For heating the water and simmering the coffee grounds, providing the necessary heat for brewing the Arabic coffee.
Baklava: Enjoy a piece of baklava with your Arabic coffee for a sweet and nutty treat that perfectly balances the bold flavors of the coffee.
Spiced Date Cookies: the aromatic flavors of the cardamom and saffron will pair perfectly with these sweet and spiced cookies.
Rosewater Rice Pudding: the floral notes of the rosewater will complement the fragrant cardamom and saffron, creating a dessert that is both comforting and exotic.
Pumpkins aren't just for pies or Halloween decorations. These large, orange gourds - while naturally sweet - also work well in savory dishes. They pair well with poultry and pork (and especially bacon) and their creamy-when-cooked texture blends easily into soups.
This Italian cheese is so versatile that it can be used in both sweet and savory recipes from cheesecakes to lasagnas.
Keeping a can of frozen orange juice concentrate in the freezer means you can make more than just orange juice. Try it in a variety of orange-flavored recipes.
reviews & comments
October 19, 2025
Somewhere, I read to add cardamom and nutmeg to make Palestinian coffee. I put one seed from a cardamom pod and a few grains of grated nutmeg. When I added more nutmeg, the coffee was bitter. So the spices are subtle. That is my experience.
December 11, 2018
Made it in pot very similar to this- won't go back to boring brewed coffee anymore!
September 22, 2014
At the price of saffron, for 1/4 teaspoon I had to omit it. Added a pinch of turmeric instead since I often see that as a substitute. Really enjoyed the cardamom flavor.
October 14, 2012
Having lived in Saudi Arabia several years ago and drunk much cardamon (Arabic) coffee, your recipe is pretty good! All it lacks is a being made in a brass Gawa pot and brewed over a fire in the desert!