Freshly brewed, with soft clouds of cinnamon and rose soothing your senses. If the weather is already steamy, this tea is a delight over ice. Purists will adore the comforting spiced flavour of Shai bil Kirfi in its natural state. However, for a true Lebanese experience, add a traditional touch of sugar (or your desired sweetener) to enhance the spices. A dash of milk never goes astray either, while a drop of rosewater will add an extra dimension of exotic flavour and a twist of romance.

In dainty tea glasses on a decorative tea tray, particularly if you’re entertaining guests. Fill the tiny cups and keep the rest hot in the teapot, ready for an infinite flow of mini refills. Though it truly is a delight to serve Shai bil Kirfi in the traditional way, it will be equally lovely in your favourite teacups.

Its own delightful self so you can enjoy the gentle play of cinnamon and rose in the air and on your tastebuds. However, if the opportunity arises, traditional Lebanese treats add an unmissable cultural dimension to tea time. Try barazek (sesame and pistachio cookies that are like a blend of shortbread, baklava, and biscotti), ka’ak (dry, double-baked biscuity breadsticks, sometimes filled with dates), ghraibeh (buttery shortbread cookies) and ma’moul (semolina cookies made with rose water, orange blossom water, and walnut, date, or pistachio filling). For a simpler cultural snack, try a mixed selection of salted nuts and seeds. Shai bil Kirfi is also a beautiful accompaniment to breakfast.

All times are perfect for enjoying this spiced delight, though the romance of rose makes it perfect for cosy reading sessions. In the villages of Lebanon, tea is served at all times of the day, accentuating special moments and simple ones alike.