Tea Ceremonies Around the World: Part V Somali and Somaliland
Read in French: HERE
SHAAH & CASARIYA/CASARIYO
My Life and Tea is exploring the different ceremonies that take place around the world and how these ceremonies transform ordinary moments into beautiful moments of pause and human connection. We continue our journey to Somalia and Somaliland with the Shaah and Casariya/Casariyo ceremony.
A CEREMONY OF RESPECT, COMFORT, SHARING AND REST FOR EVERYDAY AND SPECIAL OCCASIONS
Shaah is the name used for a specific tea blend in Somali culture. Shaah is part of daily life for Somalis and it also for special occasions: from morning rituals -to- afternoon tea -to- casual conversations and gatherings -to- after dinner -to- greeting guests -to- business meetings -to- announcements such as weddings and babies, etc.
Casariya/Casariyo is the term used to refer to afternoon tea and social gathering. Casariya/Casariyo is about taking an intentional pause and rest during the day and it is for both formal and informal settings.
Shaah and Casariya/Casariyo is a ceremony that represents respect, hospitality, comfort, relaxation and togetherness.
INGREDIENTS
The ingredients and process for this gathering consists of:
Water
Black tea leaves
Sugar
Cardamom
Cinnamon stick
Cloves
Ginger (depending on preference)
Black peppercorns (depending on preference)
Milk (depending on preference)
Delicious pastries and snacks
The people to gather and enjoy each other
And to prepare this delicious beverage:
In a pot, bring all the spices to boil in the water, adding sugar to taste.
Add the black tea leaves to the boiling water.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes or until the water is infused with the spices and leaves.
Then add the milk (if using) and sugar to the pot, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Let the tea simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Strain into cups and serve hot.
Optional to add garnishments like a cinnamon stick or sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
WHAT IS LOVING ABOUT THIS:
We love that Casariya/Casariyo is a daily custom. It is a daily custom of rest and connection. It is not reserved for the weekend or holidays. It is a moment everyday of intentional pause and of intentional rest and of intentionally connecting with others.
Perhaps this is a ceremony you can incorporate into your week with your loved ones or colleagues. Have you participated in Casariya/Casariyo before? Have you tried Shaah before? What did/does the experience mean to you? Comment below.
Sources:
“How to Make Traditional Somalia Shaah.” Funtimes. https://funtimesmagazine.com/recipes/somalia-shaah/
“The Allure of Somali Shaah: A Timeless Tradition for Every Hour.” Teacher Saciid Mohamed. BaroSomali. https://barosomali.com/the-allure-of-somali-shaah-a-timeless-tradition-for-every-hour/.
Somali shaah (tea) with spices. MYEASTAFRICANHOME. April 23, 2018. https://myeastafricanhome.wordpress.com/2018/04/23/somali-shaah-tea-with-spices/.
“A Somali-style afternoon break for tea and sweets will soothe the spirit.” Ifrah F. Ahmed. The Frederick News-Post. November 17, 2021. https://www.fredericknewspost.com/news/lifestyle/food/a-somali-style-afternoon-break-for-tea-and-sweets-will-soothe-the-spirit/article_b0f8173e-b08d-5170-a644-901fb3c8fd42.html.