Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony

Today the Coffee Ceremony is woven into the very fabric of Ethiopian Life. Women have an important role in this ceremony. Amid the smoke of incense, seated on a floor covered with flax, the woman of the household carefully roasts, husks and grinds coffee beans by hand. From a traditional black clay pot, three rounds of coffee are poured for the guests: neighbors, family and friends. Problems are discussed and news is exchanged. Ethiopians belief that the third cup holds a blessing. We call it “Berekha” The coffee ceremony is a token of friendship and respect. Coffee strengthens social bonds.