What is Dallah coffee? How to prepare authentic Arabic coffee with a Dallah

Dallah coffee is a traditional and beloved drink in Arab countries, prepared in a special pot called a dallah. This aromatic beverage is not just a simple drink, but a symbol of hospitality and the rich culture of the region. Dallah coffee holds a special place in Arab culture, appearing in various occasions ranging from friendly conversations to formal ceremonies such as marriage proposals.

What is Dallah Coffee?

Dallah coffee is a type of Arabic coffee prepared in a special pot called a “dallah.” A dallah is a pot similar to a teapot, with a narrow spout and a long handle, usually made of copper, brass, or silver. Its unique shape is designed according to Bedouin culture, keeping the coffee warm and allowing easy pouring.

The history of dallah coffee dates back centuries and is even registered on UNESCO’s cultural heritage list. This style of brewing coffee originates from the ancient traditions of the Arabian Peninsula and has spread over time to neighboring countries such as Iraq, Oman, and even southern Iran. Today, in many homes across this region, the dallah is considered an essential part of hospitality.

What Kind of Coffee is Dallah Coffee?

Unlike common Western coffees, which are usually dark and strong, dallah coffee is lighter in color with a distinctive aroma. It is made from roasted coffee beans for cafés, typically roasted to a light or medium level, resulting in a less bitter taste. A key feature of dallah coffee is the use of spices such as cardamom, saffron, cloves, and sometimes cinnamon, giving it a unique flavor and fragrance.

The brewing method of dallah coffee is different from other coffee types. Instead of pressing or filtering, it is slowly and gently boiled. Dallah coffee is usually served without sugar, accompanied by dates or traditional sweets to balance the bitterness. Unlike many modern coffees, milk is not added to dallah coffee.

The Best Coffee for a Dallah

For preparing authentic dallah coffee, Diamante Arabica Coffee is the traditional choice. Arabica beans from Yemen or the Persian Gulf countries are preferred for their high quality and distinctive aroma. These beans are generally lightly to medium roasted to preserve their natural flavor.

The grind for dallah coffee should be similar to Turkish coffee, fine like cocoa powder but slightly coarser. Grinding too finely leads to bitterness, while a coarse grind makes the coffee weak. For the best dallah coffee experience, it is recommended to use freshly roasted beans and grind them just before brewing, which preserves the aroma and natural oils.

Caffeine in Dallah Coffee

The caffeine content in dallah coffee is generally lower than espresso coffees. This is due to the type of beans (Arabica & Robusta coffee for expo) and the brewing method. Arabica coffee contains about 1.2% caffeine, compared to Robusta with 2.2%. Since dallah coffee is usually served in small cups, the caffeine intake per serving is lower.

This characteristic makes dallah coffee suitable for drinking even at night. During Ramadan, it is consumed after Iftar without affecting sleep.

It is important to note that the exact caffeine content depends on factors such as the specific bean type, roasting level, and brewing method. On average, a cup of dallah coffee contains about 40 to 60 mg of caffeine.

How to Prepare Dallah Coffee

To prepare authentic dallah coffee, you first need the proper equipment:

• A suitable dallah (preferably copper)
• Ground Arabica coffee
• Cardamom
• Saffron (optional)
• Fresh water

Steps to Prepare Dallah Coffee:

• Use about one tablespoon of coffee and one and a half cups of water per person.
• Pour the water into the dallah and place it over medium heat until it boils.
• Once the water boils, add the ground coffee, reduce the heat, and let it simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes.
• During this time, the coffee will foam several times. Each time it foams, remove the dallah from the heat to let the foam settle, then return it to the heat.
• Repeat this process 2 to 3 times.
• Finally, add cardamom and saffron, let it sit for a few minutes, then serve the coffee in small cups.

Dallah Coffee Pot

The dallah is a specially designed pot used for brewing Arabic coffee. Its shape resembles a teapot with a narrow spout and long spout, allowing precise pouring into small cups.

The unique design helps warm air circulate effectively inside, ensuring the coffee beans brew evenly. Today, dallahs are produced in various designs and sizes, and each Arab country has its distinct style. For example, Saudi, Omani, and Syrian dallahs each have unique visual features. Beyond functionality, the dallah is also recognized as a decorative item and a cultural symbol.

Arabic Dallah Coffee

Arabic dallah coffee is not only a kitchen utensil but also a symbol of Arab culture and identity. This traditional pot appears in many paintings, poems, and stories and is a hallmark of hospitality. Historically, owning a beautiful and expensive dallah indicated wealth and social status, and it was often given as a gift to brides and grooms. There are also specific etiquettes for using the dallah: it is traditional to hold the dallah with the left hand and fill the cup with the right.

The host should always be ready to refill guests’ cups. In formal gatherings, this duty is often performed by a servant or the host’s child. Today, dallahs are offered as souvenirs and gifts for tourists and are used in home and restaurant decorations.

Etiquette of Drinking Dallah Coffee

Drinking dallah coffee is more than a daily habit. it is a cultural ritual. In Arab culture, dallah coffee is served and consumed with respect. The host holds the dallah with the left hand and the cup with the right. Coffee service always starts from the right side of the gathering, usually beginning with the eldest or most honored guest.

Guests should take the cup with their right hand and drink calmly. According to tradition, the host offers coffee at least three times. If the guest does not want more, they signal by gently shaking the empty cup. Traditionally, as long as the guest is present, the dallah remains on the fire, symbolizing hospitality and respect. Dallah coffee is typically served with dates, halva, or traditional sweets to balance its bitterness.

Conclusion

Dallah coffee is not just a drink but an experience of the rich history and culture of the Middle East. With its unique aroma and taste, it connects the past to the present, recalling a time when coffee drinking was a ceremonial ritual. Knowing how to prepare and serve dallah coffee helps us appreciate Arab culture and the value of this ancient heritage.

Even with modern and complex coffees available today, the simple and authentic flavor of dallah coffee remains popular. Brands like Diamante Coffee, offering premium Arabica and Robusta beans, allow enthusiasts to enjoy this traditional experience at home.

Next time you have a chance to try dallah coffee, savor it with knowledge of its history and etiquette, and enjoy its unique aroma and taste.