Dive into the world of expertly roasted coffee varieties and discover 16 unique blends to elevate your coffee experience.
Whether your morning fix is a shot of Espresso or any number of other coffee drinks, you know there’s more to a cup of joe than a simple pour.
Espresso originated in Italy in the late 19th century.
It was invented by Angelo Moriondo, an Italian engineer, who patented a machine that could produce a concentrated coffee beverage in 1884.
However, it wasn't until Luigi Bezzera's improvements to the design in 1901 that espresso as we know it today began to take shape.
The name 'espresso' comes from the Italian word for 'express,' which refers to the quick brewing process.
Understanding the Basics of Coffee
Coffee is more than just a morning ritual; it’s a global phenomenon. With so many types of coffee out there, it’s easy to find a brew that satisfies your taste buds, matches your mood and even complements the weather outside. Whether you’re into rich Espresso or chilled cold brew, every style offers a unique experience.
Coffee originated in Ethiopia over 1,000 years ago.
Legend has it that a goatherd named Kaldi discovered the energizing effects of coffee after noticing his goats became more energetic after eating red coffee cherries.
From there, coffee spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula and eventually to the rest of Europe.
Today, coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages globally, with over 2.25 billion cups consumed daily.
Popular Coffee Drinks Around the World
Here’s a flavorful rundown of the world’s most beloved coffee drinks.
Espresso
The heart of many popular coffee drinks, “espresso is a concentrated shot made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans”, it forms the base of drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and Americanos. A double shot ups the ante on both flavor and caffeine content, making it a hit with Espresso enthusiasts.
Latte
A latte is made by mixing hot Espresso with steamed milk, topped with a bit of milk foam. This drink offers a creamy texture and smooth taste that appeals to a wide range of coffee drinkers. Add flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel, and you’ve got a café favorite that never goes out of style.
Cappuccino
Similar to a latte but with more foam, the cappuccino is all about balance. It typically includes equal parts Espresso, steamed milk and foam. The fluffy frothed milk adds a lightness to the drink that pairs perfectly with its robust base.
Mocha
Perfect for coffee lovers who also crave chocolate, a mocha blends Espresso combined with chocolate syrup, steamed milk and often a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of cocoa powder seals the deal for dessert-like richness.
Macchiato
An Espresso-forward drink, the macchiato is a regular Espresso shot “stained” with a touch of milk foam. There are variations like the caramel macchiato, which involve mixing Espresso with sweet flavors and more milk for a layered drink.
Black Coffee
Black coffee is as straightforward as it gets: ground coffee brewed with water, no frills. It’s ideal for purists who want to experience the flavor of different coffee bean types, especially “arabica or robusta coffee” — and great for anyone watching their sugar or cream intake too.
Iced Coffee
Iced coffee is simply regular brewed coffee that’s chilled and served over ice. It’s a quick and refreshing way to drink coffee on hot days. Unlike cold brew, it’s brewed hot and then cooled, giving it a sharper flavor profile.
Decaffeinated Coffee
Decaffeinated coffee gives you the same coffee flavor without the buzz. Whether you’re sensitive to caffeine or just want a cozy evening cup, decaf ensures you don’t have to sacrifice your love of the brew.
Cold Brew
A cold coffee drink made by steeping ground coffee in cold water for 12 to 24 hours, “cold brew coffee is smoother and often perceived as less acidic than traditional brews”, although its pH is similar and perceived acidity varies by roast and brew method. It’s often served over ice cubes and can be sweetened or blended with cold milk for a mellow treat.
Instant Coffee
Made from coffee brewed into a concentrate and then dried, “instant coffee is beloved for its convenience”. Just add hot water and stir — no fancy equipment required. It’s especially popular in places where brewing coffee isn’t part of the daily culture.
Turkish Coffee
This ancient coffee beverage made by boiling finely ground coffee beans with water and sugar in a small pot called a cezve. The result is unfiltered and strong, with coffee grounds settling at the bottom. Served in small cups, it’s a staple across the Middle East and Balkans.
South Indian Filter Coffee
Made with a metal filter and often using arabica beans, this strong brew is mixed with hot milk and sugar for a creamy, flavorful treat. Popular in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, it’s the pride of South Indian households.
Vietnamese Coffee
Bold, sweet and deeply satisfying, Vietnamese coffee is typically made using a metal drip filter called a phin, which brews strong coffee directly into a cup. It’s often combined with sweetened condensed milk and served over ice for a refreshing twist known as cà phê sữa đá.
Vietnamese coffee, also known as Ca Phe, is a strong and rich coffee made from finely ground coffee beans.
The traditional method involves using a small metal filter called a phin to brew the coffee.
This unique brewing technique allows for a high concentration of coffee flavors to be extracted, resulting in a bold and smooth taste experience.
Vietnamese coffee is often served over ice with sweetened condensed milk, creating a creamy and refreshing drink.
Coffee Milk
A lesser-known gem, coffee milk is made by combining cold milk with coffee syrup (a sweetened coffee concentrate). It’s especially popular in Rhode Island and has a nostalgic charm that keeps fans coming back.
Chai-coffee Hybrids
Yes, chai and coffee can co-exist! Drinks like dirty chai combine chati tea and Espresso for a spicy, caffeinated experience. These hybrids are gaining popularity for their unique flavor and cultural fusion.
Alcoholic Coffee Drinks
These combine the kick of coffee with the warmth of spirits. Think “Irish coffee (with whiskey and fresh cream)” or coffee cocktails served in coffee houses and bars. They offer a rich, warming twist for adventurous sippers.
- howstuffworks.com | 16 Types of Coffee to Fuel Your Next Caffeine Fix
