Arabic Coffee & Hospitality

The drinking of coffee is a traditional part of Bahrain welcome, and begins with the preparation of the coffee itself. Three cupfuls of vaster and a rounded teaspoon of coffee (gahwa) are poured into a saucepan and then boiled for about two minutes. Next comes the relaxation process, which is very important, as it allows time for the traditional exchange of greetings and welcome. After adding cardamom and saffron in rosewater, the liquid is poured gently from the saucepan into the coffeepot, or dalla, taking care that the sediment remains in the pan. The coffee is then left to brew for five or ten minutes before being served in a small cup, or finjan. It is polite to accept a second cup if offered, but for third and subsequent helpings, the shaking of the cup from side to side indicates refusal. Coffeepots can be found in many shops on the island, as well as in the soukhs. They make an ideal reminder for the hospitality and welcome extended to visitors by the people of Bahrain.