In ancient Persia, kitchens were equipped with a built-in in-house coffee roasting station. Coffee was introduced to Persia through trade with neighboring countries, and it quickly became a popular beverage among the Persians. The roasting station in their kitchens was typically made of clay or metal and had a small fire pit where the beans were roasted. The Persians enjoyed their coffee with a touch of cardamom and sometimes added saffron for a luxurious flavor. Coffee houses, known as qahveh khaneh, became popular gathering places for socializing and intellectual discussions. Coffee was considered a symbol of hospitality and was often served to guests as a sign of respect.