Navigating Coffee Culture An Expats Guide to Jordan
Welcome expatriates to the vibrant coffee culture of Jordan! Whether you're a coffee aficionado or a newcomer to the world of coffee, this guide is designed to help you navigate and embrace the region's unique coffee traditions. From understanding coffee origins and production to savoring favorite style drinks and embracing coffee drinking customs and traditions, this guide will provide practical advice and insights necessary for immersing yourself in Jordan's rich coffee heritage.
Understanding Coffee Origins and Production
Jordan's coffee culture can be traced back to the 15th century when coffee was first introduced to the Middle East by Ethiopian traders. Today, coffee is grown in several regions of Jordan, including Ajloun, Karak, and Tafila. Local coffee farms produce a variety of coffee beans, including Arabica, Robusta, and Liberica. The Arabica variety is particularly prized for its mild flavor and aroma.
While imported coffee varieties can be found in many stores across Jordan, there is something unique and special about savoring locally grown and roasted coffee. By choosing locally grown coffee, you'll be supporting the local community and experiencing the unique flavors and aromas that are exclusive to Jordan. Moreover, visiting coffee plantations and farms firsthand present an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the coffee culture of Jordan.
Embracing Favorite Coffee Style Drinks
Jordan's coffee culture is diverse and encompasses a range of coffee style drinks, each with its unique flavor profile. Some popular favorites include:
- Turkish Coffee - A strong and thick coffee made by boiling finely ground coffee beans in a copper or brass pot, called a cezve.
- Arabic Coffee - Also known as gahwa or qahwa, is a milder and less thick coffee than Turkish coffee. Arabic coffee is usually served in traditional mud ware cups and saucers.
- Espresso - An Italian-style coffee that is strong, thick, and rich, with a distinct cream color. Espresso is often served as a shot or in various blends, such as latte, cappuccino, and mocha.
In Jordan, coffee houses are regarded as gathering places where people can exchange ideas, engage in lively discussions, and enjoy a cup of coffee together. Many traditional cafes also offer shisha (water pipe) smoking, providing a unique and immersive cultural experience to expats.
Embracing Coffee Drinking Customs and Traditions
Coffee is an integral part of both social and religious customs in Jordan. Offering coffee as a sign of hospitality is a common practice, and the druze and bedouin communities often offer coffee as a token of respect during formal gatherings.
Coffee plays a central role in Jordanian daily life and is consumed in various social contexts, such as during family gatherings, intellectual discussions, and religious ceremonies. Cultural traditions also dictate the preparation and serving etiquettes of coffee in Jordan. For instance, traditional coffee grounds should be left in the cup, and the cup should be held by the saucer as a sign of hospitality.
When consuming coffee with friends or family, it's essential to respect the local customs and traditions of Jordan. You can do so by following simple principles, such as using the right hand when drinking coffee, offering the first cup to the eldest member present, and, most importantly, engaging in authentic cultural experiences by enjoying a cup of coffee in traditional Jordanian cafes.
Conclusion
The coffee heritage of Jordan is a fascinating blend of tradition, culture, and hospitality. From understanding coffee origins and production to enjoying favorite style drinks and embracing coffee drinking customs and traditions, this guide has provided insights, tips, and recommendations necessary for expats to immerse themselves in Jordan's coffee culture. Empower yourself to connect with local communities, embrace local customs, and discover the unique coffee culture of Jordan. In conclusion, coffee is a gateway to experiencing authentic cultural experiences, connecting with local communities, and fostering global connections based on shared passions and interests.