Why Ethiopians Still Hold Daily Coffee Ceremonies

In Ethiopia, coffee is more than a drink — it’s a tradition that shapes daily life. Every day, in homes and small community spaces, families gather for the coffee ceremony, a slow, deliberate process that goes far beyond just brewing a cup. It’s about connection, culture, and keeping a centuries-old heritage alive in a fast-changing world.

The ceremony starts with green coffee beans roasted over a small charcoal stove, filling the air with a rich, earthy aroma. Once roasted, the beans are ground by hand using a mortar and pestle. The coffee is then brewed in a traditional clay pot called a jebena and poured into small cups without handles. It’s often served in three rounds, each slightly lighter than the last, accompanied by snacks like popcorn or roasted barley.

For Ethiopians, this is not a rushed activity. The process can take an hour or more, but it’s time spent together — talking, sharing news, and building relationships. It’s a daily pause from life’s demands, offering space for family bonds and community ties to strengthen. In villages, neighbours often join in, turning it into a shared ritual.

Even in Ethiopian cities and among the diaspora, the coffee ceremony remains a bridge between generations. Young people learn the techniques from elders, keeping the tradition intact despite modern coffee machines and busy schedules. The slow pace is intentional, a reminder that coffee is not just consumed but experienced.

This practice holds lessons beyond Ethiopia. It shows how a simple beverage can be a tool for human connection, a way to slow down, and a celebration of culture. In a world where instant coffee dominates, Ethiopia’s daily ceremony is proof that some traditions are worth keeping — not for the drink itself, but for the moments it creates.