I don't usually get many visitors on weekends, but on this occasion, one of my aunts surprised me with more than just her pleasant presence: a Mahmood brand Cappuccino. I was surprised that, even after a fifteen minute trip, the Cappuccino was still warm. I noticed that the drink was inside an elegant and somewhat airtight container. The type of coffee comes from some Middle Eastern country; from what I could gather, the Mahmood brand provides instant coffee, although this one my aunt gave me was brewed in a coffee shop. Before tasting the Cappuccino, I seriously wondered if, being of Arab origin, it would substantially change its flavor. What I found surprised me beyond any doubt.
My aunt arrived just a few minutes before I was to start my usual Sunday reading. This time, on the table rested my notebook of ideas and a book by John Katzenbach; I am just getting to know this author, and I must admit that he knew how to grab me. My aunt was just passing by, so she accompanied me for a few minutes just to hand me the Cappuccino. When I saw the packaging I was surprised to see so many Arabic letters; I think the Mahmood brand is of Turkish origin. I did not hesitate to remove the lid of the container to perceive the smell it gave off; it was pleasant, because I could smell the aroma of coffee, and a kind of infusion that I could not recognize. When I took the first sip, I felt like the universe fluttered around me? well, it wasn't exactly like that, but the taste was quite pleasant.
My family is of Lebanese origin, and I remember when my dad would tell me about some traditions before drinking coffee and how they accompanied it. However, since I was a child I became more familiar with the Venezuelan tradition, so all traces of Middle Eastern culture disappeared from my customs. I think this is the first time I drink coffee coming from a country close to my roots, because yes, I also have some Turkish descent.
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When I took my first sip, I immediately started reading the book. I love to do it in the garden, even though it was raining, so I had to confine myself to my living room. The book I'm reading, called Blood Portrait, explores one of the most fascinating themes: mystery. Crime novels capture my attention the most, so there's nothing better than pairing it with some coffee. The cappuccino had a good balance between milk and coffee. It wasn't too sweet, and I really liked this feature. Sometimes too much sugar ruins things; I prefer a more concentrated flavor.
I enjoyed the Mahmood cappuccino very much; I think it is a little known brand in my country, but I like to see new types of coffee and of foreign origin. My palate is adventurous in flavors, even more so when it comes to my favorite beverage.
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Have you ever tasted coffee of Arabian origin?
I think the only thing that makes the difference between one type of coffee and another is the way it is prepared. Everyone has a different taste and sometimes it is wonderful to find new flavors related to coffee. Mahmood Cappuccino is very good for a moment of reading or simply to enjoy with a dessert... either way, it is something you should try if you have the opportunity.