FAQ About Coffee

In Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, the traditional brewing method is known as the Ethiopian coffee ceremony. It is a ceremonial and social event that involves multiple stages of coffee preparation and is often performed by a designated host or a respected community member. Here's an overview of the Ethiopian coffee ceremony:

Gathering and Roasting:

• The ceremony typically takes place in a communal setting, such as a household or a traditional Ethiopian coffee house.
• Green coffee beans are washed, sorted, and then roasted on a charcoal stove or an open fire in front of the guests.
• The roasting process is accompanied by the aromatic smell of the coffee beans, creating an enticing atmosphere.

Grinding:

• Once the coffee beans are roasted to the desired level, they are immediately ground using a mortar and pestle or a manual coffee grinder.
• The ground coffee is often quite fine, similar to a medium grind.

Brewing:

• A traditional Ethiopian coffee pot called a jebena is used for brewing. The jebena is typically made of clay or ceramic and has a distinctive shape, with a round base and a long neck.
• The jebena is filled with water and placed over a charcoal stove or an open flame to heat the water.
• When the water reaches a near-boiling point, the ground coffee is added to the jebena. No filters are used, allowing the coffee grounds to steep directly in the water.

Serving:

• Once the coffee has brewed for a few minutes, the host pours small amounts of coffee into small handleless cups called finjans or kanas. The coffee is poured from a height to create a frothy layer of foam on top.
• The coffee is served to guests in a particular order, starting with the eldest or most honored individuals. It is customary to serve three rounds of coffee, known as "abol," "tona," and "baraka," each with a different strength.

Enjoyment and Rituals:

• Coffee is savored slowly while engaging in conversation and socializing with others.
• The ceremony is often accompanied by traditional Ethiopian snacks, such as popcorn or roasted barley.
• Ethiopian coffee ceremonies are seen as a way to foster community, share stories, and strengthen bonds among participants.