Qishr (Yemeni Coffee Husk Brew)
Origin: Yemen | Prep: 3 minutes | Brew: 10 minutes
About This Brew
Qishr is a centuries-old Yemeni drink made not from the coffee bean but from its dried husks (cascara), brewed with ginger and sometimes cinnamon. In Yemen, one of the oldest coffee-growing regions on earth, the precious beans were often exported while the leftover husks were brewed at home, producing a lighter, fruitier, tea-like beverage.
The flavour is unlike bean coffee: subtly sweet and tart with notes of dried fruit, hibiscus and rosehip, warmed by a generous hit of ginger. It is low in caffeine and gently soothing, traditionally served sweet and hot in small cups as a gesture of hospitality. With cascara now prized by specialty roasters worldwide, qishr is enjoying a well-earned revival.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp dried coffee husks (cascara/qishr)
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (or fresh slices)
- Small piece cinnamon stick (optional)
- Sugar, to taste
- Water
Equipment Needed
- Small pot
- Fine strainer
- Cup
Instructions
- Add the coffee husks, ginger and cinnamon to a pot of water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in sugar to taste.
- Strain into small cups.
- Serve hot.
Tags: Middle East · Hot · Easy
