🇪🇹 Ethiopia · Drinks
Ebena Buna
By eatmundo · September 8, 2026
🇪🇹 ETAI-generated imageA deeply aromatic, intense Ethiopian black coffee, typically brewed in a traditional clay vessel called a jebena. Often served with a hint of sugar and a fragrant sprig of rue.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Lightly roast 30g of raw green coffee beans in a small skillet over low heat until they are dark brown.
- 2
Grind the roasted beans into a coarse powder using a mortar and pestle.
- 3
Pour 200ml of water into a traditional clay jebena and bring it to a near-boil.
- 4
Add the ground coffee powder to the hot water and let it simmer for 3 minutes.
- 5
Remove the jebena from the heat and allow the coffee grounds to settle at the bottom for a moment.
- 6
Place a small sprig of fresh rue in the spout or inside the pot for a distinctive, herbal aroma.
- 7
Add 10g of sugar directly to the jebena if preferred, stirring gently with a long spoon.
- 8
Pour the coffee slowly into small cups in a single, high-pour motion to aerate it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ebena Buna?+
Ebena Buna is a traditional Ethiopian coffee served during the iconic coffee ceremony. It is prepared in a clay pot called a 'jebena' and is noted for its rich flavor and ceremonial preparation.
What is the purpose of rue?+
Rue (tenadam) is added to Ethiopian coffee to infuse it with a distinct, medicinal herbal aroma, which is highly appreciated in local coffee culture.
Is the coffee very strong?+
Yes, Ethiopian coffee brewed this way is quite potent and concentrated, which is why it is typically served in very small, demitasse-style cups.
Can I use an electric coffee maker?+
While an electric machine will produce coffee, it lacks the specific earthy character and temperature control provided by the clay jebena.
How many times can the beans be used?+
In traditional ceremonies, the same grounds are often brewed three times (Abol, Tona, Baraka), with each round becoming progressively weaker.
🇪🇹 ETAI-generated imageMundo Match
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