Quick answerQishr (also spelled qahwat al-qishr) is a traditional Yemeni drink brewed from the dried husks of the coffee cherry, usually with ginger, sugar and sometimes cinnamon or cardamom. It is lighter, sweeter and lower in caffeine than coffee, and is especially popular in the hot coastal regions of Yemen.
In Yemen, nothing from the coffee cherry is wasted. While the beans were exported as precious "Mocha", the dried husks became a beloved everyday drink.
How qishr is made
- Simmer 2 tablespoons of dried coffee husks in 2 cups of water.
- Add 1 teaspoon ground ginger and sugar to taste.
- Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom.
- Simmer 5-8 minutes, strain and serve in small cups.
What it tastes like
Fruity and tea-like with warming ginger spice, a very different experience from coffee made with beans.
Qishr vs Yemeni coffee
Many people use the name for a ginger-spiced coffee brewed with ground beans too. Our page How to Make Yemeni Coffee shares a traditional ginger recipe using ground Yemeni beans.
Frequently asked questions
Does qishr have caffeine?
Yes, a little, but much less than coffee.
Is qishr the same as cascara?
They are similar: both use dried coffee cherry husks. Qishr is traditionally spiced with ginger.
When is qishr served?
Throughout the day, with guests, after meals and in the afternoon.
Prefer the beans? Try Mocha Yemeni with ginger.
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