The Coffee Ceremony in Ethiopia is a vital part of the country’s social and cultural life, a true family ritual concluding the typical Ethiopian meal.
An ancient proverb says, ‘Buna dabo naw,’ meaning ‘Coffee is our Bread.’
Invitations to this hour-long ceremony are gestures of profound friendship and respect.
A woman in traditional white attire, symbolizing purity, orchestrates the ceremony by spreading flowers and fresh grass, recreating outdoor fragrances.
Seated beside a charcoal brazier, she kindles incense, creating a unique atmosphere.
Guests are usually served snacks.
The woman then roasts green coffee beans, wafting the smoke towards guests for appreciation.
After grinding the beans, she adds them to hot water, often with grated ginger for spice.
The brewed coffee is poured, cooled, and transferred back to the traditional jebena clay pot.
Finally, the intense and full-bodied coffee is served in vibrant handle-less cups called Fingiàn.
The ceremony, repeated thrice if desired, includes Awel for elders, Kale’i for adults, and Bereka (‘blessing’) for children.
Experience the Coffee Ceremony in Ethiopia with our personalized itinerary.
