Are you a strict espresso lover who believes there is no other way to enjoy coffee? You might be surprised to learn that, outside Italy, coffee is consumed in many different ways.
The preparation method significantly influences the taste of the beverage. For instance, if you try coffee in Africa, you will notice a much stronger flavor than what you are used to. Even a simple American coffee will show how the same coffee bean can produce drinks that taste completely different.
Let’s explore how coffee is enjoyed around the world.
Coffee: A Social Ritual, Not Just in Italy
Brewing coffee is a social ritual. In Italy, it’s a common excuse to gather, marking work breaks and family moments.
However, in many other countries, the preparation and consumption of coffee are deeply embedded in local traditions. But what are the differences?
The Largest Coffee Producers Are in America
Although coffee is an integral part of Italian culture, its origins are African and Asian. Today, the largest coffee plantations are in South America.
- In Colombia, the Eje Cafetero (Colombian Coffee Axis) supplies a large part of the world. Here, you can taste the Chaqueta, made with coffee and aguapanela (liquid cane sugar).
- Cuba, while not a top producer, has renowned plantations, such as those in the Sierra Maestra, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being cultivated without chemical fertilizers.
- Mexico is the largest producer of organic coffee. Here, you can try the Café de Olla, made with boiling water, ground coffee, piloncillo (unrefined sugar), and cinnamon.
- Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer, offering stronger and bolder coffee than American brews. The Ca Phe Sua Dá is a typical Vietnamese iced coffee made with one part coffee, three parts hot water, two tablespoons of condensed milk, and ice. Another popular drink is Cà Phê Trúng, a blend of Vietnamese filtered coffee, an egg yolk, and condensed milk.
Coffee and Liquor: A Mix of Energy and Tradition
In some countries, coffee is paired with liquor, creating strong, flavorful drinks with rich histories.
- In Norway, a unique brewing method dates back to Scandinavian farmers. They pour coffee into a cup until a coin placed at the bottom is no longer visible, then add liquor until the coin reappears.
- Irish Coffee is one of the most famous coffee-based alcoholic drinks, made with hot coffee, Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and thick cream.
- In Hong Kong, coffee is mixed with black tea and condensed milk in equal parts, creating the YuanYang. Be careful of imitations, such as those found at Starbucks or in Macao!
The Ancient Coffee Tradition in Africa
In Senegal, coffee holds spiritual significance and is believed to help with prayers. Café Touba is made with coffee beans roasted with black pepper and garlic cloves, sweetened to taste.
In Ethiopia, coffee is far from a quick drink—the traditional coffee ceremony can last up to an hour.
- The coffee is brewed with water, and its aroma is deeply inhaled before being served in three small rounded cups called Awol, Tona, and Baraka, meant to be sipped slowly.
- Another Ethiopian specialty is Buna, where coffee beans are roasted in a pan, ground with spices in a mortar, and infused in a terracotta coffee pot (jebena) placed over hot coals.
If traveling is not an option this year, don’t miss out on a journey of flavors and traditions. A high-quality coffee can take you around the world—without leaving home!
2020
