بن السودة
Souda coffee beans develop into cherry-shaped, red fruits when ripe. Upon harvesting, the fruits are processed, dried, and peeled, to reveal the green inner beans. The beans are then roasted into a golden color, releasing a distinctive aroma.
The Arabica coffee beans grown in the mountainous area of Souda are renowned for their high quality due to the ideal climate in the highlands. Souda Arabica has a unique floral and fruity fragrance, reminiscent of wildflowers and fresh fruit. Its flavor profile is often complex, with a balance of acidity and fruity notes, with hints of chocolate or nuts.
Souda coffee beans are used to prepare the traditional Saudi coffee drink in the local Asiri style. Additionally, the coffee husks are used to make a drink called Qisher, meaning husks in Arabic, which is popular in the region and several other areas in the Kingdom. The preparation method of Qisher differs from that of Saudi coffee.
Today, the coffee beans are also used to prepare specialty coffee, including filtered coffees and espresso.
Souda coffee beans grow on mountain terraces, where fresh water, fertile soil, and a mild to cool climate create ideal conditions. The coffee plant has green leaves and white flowers, with coffee cherries that begin green and turn red upon ripening.
This coffee is cultivated in mountainous areas at elevations reaching up to 2,000 meters above sea level. Traditional farming methods are used that rely on natural irrigation from rainfall and the mist that usually covers the Souda area. Coffee cultivation in Asir dates back centuries. It was traditionally grown in the mountains, reflecting the region’s agricultural heritage. Souda is one of the oldest areas for coffee cultivation in Asir, with a long history of agricultural production and cultivation. This craft is a family heritage passed down from grandparents to children and grandchildren since ancient times. The native Saudi coffee strains in the area are estimated to be over 300 years old, with locals historically responsible for their cultivation.
Coffee is an integral part of the cultural heritage of Asir’s people and is seen as a symbol of hospitality and generosity. Serving coffee is a traditional custom at social gatherings and celebrations. The roads leading to the Souda mountains are unpaved and rough, making it difficult to reach the farms. Additionally, baboon monkeys in the area eat and damage the coffee trees, and farmers find it challenging to keep them away.
