Lebanese white coffee contains no coffee and is prepared with orange blossom water.
Prepared with hot water and a touch of orange blossom water, Lebanese white coffee is a traditional alternative served after meals.
Coffee is a beloved beverage worldwide, but its universe extends far beyond espressos and frappuccinos. Among its more unusual varieties are kopi luwak, made with civet dung, and the elusive monkey coffee, found only in India and Taiwan.
For those who want to enjoy coffee without the energy boost, decaf is the most common option, although there are alternatives that don't use coffee at all. Lebanese white coffee is one of the lesser-known substitutes: it's prepared with boiling water and a small amount of orange blossom water, and can be served with or without sweetener.
It may seem contradictory that a drink with the word "coffee" in its name doesn't contain coffee, but Lebanese white coffee isn't the only example. Red espresso, for instance, is made with rooibos tea leaves.
The drink, also known as "yahweh bayda" (literally meaning "white coffee"), is not only an alternative to caffeinated beverages but also holds great cultural significance. It is often offered after meals instead of Turkish coffee, which is high in caffeine.
While not unique to Lebanon, many people enjoy a caffeine-free beverage after dinner. This is where Lebanese white coffee comes in. Served hot and slightly sweetened with honey or sweetener, it's also considered beneficial for digestion.
Orange blossom water is a common ingredient in several Middle Eastern cultures, making it more accessible and prevalent in Lebanese culture than in the United States.