Coffee drinkers are a special breed. They’re the only people who can turn into highly functioning human beings with just one sip of that magical elixir. Without their daily dose of caffeine, they resemble a herd of sleep-deprived sloths attempting to perform brain surgery with butter knives. You can spot a coffee drinker from a mile away by their jittery dance moves while waiting in line at the cafe, as if the coffee beans were playing a live concert in their bloodstream. And don’t even get them started on decaf – that’s like offering a superhero a glass of water and expecting them to save the day with a single gulp. Coffee drinkers: turning ordinary folks into caffeinated comedians, one cup at a time!
Coffee Break – For Those That Love Coffee As Much As We Do!
We do love our coffee here and hope you stop in often for a little coffee break and read up on one of our favorite topics! COFFEE!
Coffee has a rich and fascinating history that spans centuries and continents. Here’s a brief overview of its background:
Origins in Ethiopia: The story of coffee begins in the region of East Africa, specifically in Ethiopia. According to legend, a goat herder named Kaldi discovered coffee when he noticed that his goats became unusually energetic and lively after eating the berries from a certain tree. Curious about the effects, Kaldi tried the berries himself and experienced increased alertness. Word of this discovery spread, and coffee began to gain attention in the region.
We do love our tea as well, but coffee is our first love.
Take a Quick Coffee Break and Check out our Coffee Page and find a Few of the most Delicious Coffee Drinks to make Below!
7 Incredible Health Benefits of Coffee and of Course Coffee Breaks!
Whether you take it black or with cream and sugar, if you’re a coffee lover, you depend on that first cup of java to get your morning started. However, the good things this popular caffeinated beverage offers aren’t just limited to providing a jump start to your day or that extra boost of energy you need to get past the afternoon slump. It’s been proven that coffee is also good for you in a variety of ways. Read on to discover seven surprising health benefits of coffee.
Burns Fat
Take a walk through the nutritional supplements aisle of your local drugstore and scan the ingredient lists of the popular fat burners. More than likely, you’ll see caffeine listed on nearly everyone. That’s because this natural chemical has been shown to significantly aid in the fat burning process by boosting the body’s metabolic rate.
Lowers Risk of Type II Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a rising health problem in developed countries where diets are often high in white sugar and carbohydrates. This form of diabetes is characterized by increased blood sugar levels that lead to insulin resistance. Though the reason isn’t clear, regular coffee drinkers tend to be less prone to Type 2 diabetes.
Protects the Liver
The liver is an essential organ in proper functioning of the human body. There are quite a few diseases that attack the liver. Cirrhosis is the culmination of long-term liver deterioration in which only scar tissue remains. Drinking coffee may significantly lower the risk of developing this condition.
Reduce Likelihood of Alzheimer’s
The risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia increases as we age. Those 65 and over are most susceptible. While there is no known cure, eating healthy and exercising can help to ward off the disease. Studies have also indicated that coffee drinkers may be less likely to succumb to Alzheimer’s.
Decreases Risk of Some Cancer
Various types of cancer exist and are caused by an overgrowth or mutation of cells in the body. Coffee drinkers seem to be less likely to succumb to two specific kinds of cancer; these are colorectal and liver cancer. This is good news as these are both common forms of the disease.
Improves Physical Performance
Epinephrine, perhaps better known as Adrenaline, is the body chemical that increases with the “fight or flight syndrome.” It is also responsible for pushing the body through bouts of physical activity. Caffeine increases levels of Adrenaline in your blood, which breaks down fat, fueling the body for better performance.
Fights Depression
You probably know someone affected by depression or you may have the condition, yourself. Depression is marked by an overwhelming sadness that greatly affects the daily lives of sufferers. Studies point to indications that regular coffee intake can lessen the chances of developing depression, as well as decreasing the risk of suicide.
Coffee contains a number of ingredients and compounds. In most cases, researchers haven’t determined the specific reason for the many health benefits of coffee. However, a great deal of evidence indicates that your favorite morning brew gives you far more than energy and alertness.
Our Favorite Coffee for our Coffee Break
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Guide to Common Coffee Roasts
Did you know that coffee beans are usually stored when they’re green? They’re stored this way in order to maintain freshness and quality prior to roasting. It’s the roasting that brings out the aroma and taste you love. Roasting uses high temperatures in order to bring about the chemical changes necessary to produce the desired taste when brewed. Roasts can be divided into four main categories. These are light, medium, medium-dark and dark. A bit of trivia you may not realize is that it’s the light roasts that actually have a higher concentration of caffeine than the darker ones. This guide to common coffee roasts will give you a basic understanding of each category and the types of coffee in each.
Light Roasts: This type of roast usually yields a milder, more subtle flavor. The outer surface is dry due to the fact that the roasting process is not long enough to break the bean down. Sometimes the flavor can be a bit sour, and such beans will be used in less expensive coffee blends. Common names for lightly roasted coffees include Cinnamon, Light, Half City and New England.
Medium Roasts: A bit stronger in flavor with a medium brown color, these roasts yield a bean that also has a dry surface. A bright, crisp and fully developed flavor is offered by medium roasts. A favorite of many U.S. coffee drinkers, you’ll find American roast in this category. Breakfast, Regular, City and Medium also fall into this group.
Medium-Dark Roasts: These roasts have a slightly oily surface and dark in color. They have a rich body and a sweet taste. You’ll find Full City, Continental, Viennese and Light Espresso among medium-dark roasts.
Dark Roasts: The final roast category is generally bittersweet in flavor with a black, shiny appearance. Low in acidity, these roasts have a broad variety from dark all the way to charred, losing acidity as darkness increases. Common names are French, Italian, Neapolitan and Spanish.
If you’re an experienced coffee drinker, you may know which roast is your preference. Those new to the beverage may wish to explore. Because there are so many varieties in types of coffee roasts, it’s always a good idea to try something new.
How to Make Popular Types of Coffee Drinks
If you’re a coffee lover with a weakness for yummy frothy and deliciously dark beverages, you probably know these treats can be rather pricey. Perhaps you’re ready to try your hand at making your own caffeinated creations at home, but you’re not sure how to even begin. Sure, it can be a bit confusing. Each different drink is made with its own particular roast of bean, particular grind, temperature and ingredients. Relax, sit back and take a look at this simple primer on how to make popular types of coffee drinks in your kitchen.
Espresso: The key to making a good espresso is the grind of the bean. You should use finely ground, quality coffee beans instead of the coarse grind used in regular coffee. In addition, an espresso is much stronger than your regular cup of Joe. It’s made with one tablespoon of coffee per ounce of water. The ground beans should be packed firmly and evenly in the basket prior to brewing. Because of its strength, a small cup is used for serving espresso.
Mocha: This chocolatey coffee drink is a blend of coffee, hot chocolate and steamed milk. Prepare your favorite hot cocoa. Then add just a shot or so of coffee to taste, and then finish off with steamed milk. Serve in a clear mug with whipped cream on top for the perfect coffee house experience.
Cappuccino: A shot of espresso mixed with equal portions of steamed and frothed milk make up this classic concoction. Add the shot of coffee to a large mug, and then fill with the milk mixture. You can dust the top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, cocoa powder or nutmeg.
Latte: This yummy hot beverage is similar to a cappuccino. However, the difference is that your frothy milk is combined with the coffee, rather than poured separately on top. Start with a shot of espresso at the bottom of your mug, and then slowly pour the milk down the side. The goal is to blend the two gently.
These are the basics of making your favorite types of coffee drinks at home. If you plan to indulge in specialty java regularly, you should consider investing in a proper espresso maker in order to get the best results.
Tips to Properly Store Coffee
If you’re a coffee connoisseur, you’ll likely want to keep a variety of their favorite roasts on hand. After all, the various types of drinks require different grinds or roasts. However, it’s important to note that coffee is perishable and that the freshest beans make the best-tasting cup. Therefore, it’s important to know how to keep your coffee fresh for as long as possible. Follow these tips to properly store coffee in order to ensure your beans maintain their appeal.
Choose Whole Beans
Whole coffee beans are always preferable to pre-ground varieties when it comes to the ultimate in freshness. You’ll achieve the best flavor by grinding the beans yourself immediately prior to brewing. Grinding leads to faster oxidizing of coffee, giving it a bitter or flat taste. Beans are definitely best.
Don’t Buy Too Much
While it’s great to have your favorites on hand, you don’t want to go overboard. Experts agree that it’s best to consume your coffee within two weeks of purchase because coffee beans start to slowly lose their defining properties immediately after the beans are roasted. While it may be tempting to stock up on those super sales, you’ll soon discover that ending up with bags of coffee that won’t keep really isn’t much of a bargain.
Keep It Airtight
Exposure to air contributes to the degradation of coffee’s freshness, so it’s imperative that you keep your beans in an airtight container. The bag you bought them in is fine if it has a strong seal. However, many do not. A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid will do the job if you want to ensure longer-lasting quality.
Cool and Dark is Best
Sunlight breaks down the natural properties of your coffee beans, so always be sure to store them someplace dark. In addition, cool temperatures are best for maintaining freshness. However, room temperature is generally fine, as the refrigerator is too cool and also steals the flavor and aroma from your beans. A dark cupboard or corner of your counter should be fine.
These are the basic tips to properly store coffee at home. Just a bit of care and preparation will help to ensure your favorite morning beverage always tastes its best.
How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Coffee
Coffee lovers are particular about their favorite beverage. Chances are you like your morning java a certain way. Some folks want it strong and dark, while others prefer a bright and crisp flavor. No matter what your preference, there are some key recommendations when it comes to achieving an end result that is as fresh and flavorful as possible. Here’s what you need to know about how to brew the perfect cup of coffee at home.
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Equipment
Whether you’re using a high-end espresso machine or a simple coffee maker, you’ll achieve the best tasting coffee when your equipment is clean. This includes your grinder, as well. Wash everything following its use. Use hot water or a clean, dry cloth according to the directions that came with your tools. Make sure to clean every nook and cranny so that oil or residue aren’t left behind, which can lead to a bitter tasting coffee in the future.
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Coffee Beans
The type and roast of your beans is a personal choice and varies by individual. However, there are some things to keep in mind when choosing your beans if you want great taste every time. First of all, freshness is crucial. Buy just enough to last you a couple weeks, and store them in an airtight container to avoid oxidizing. Also, buy your coffee beans from a reputable source or brand you trust. In addition, grind just enough for the serving size you desire immediately prior to brewing.
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Type of Grind
Whether your coffee is finely or coarsely ground makes a difference. However, too fine leads to a bitter taste and too coarse can wind up flat. The type of grinder you use also matters. Burr or mill grinders give you a consistent grind, while a less expensive blade grinder can leave you with various sizes. Consistency of grind yields to better flavor.
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Water
Quality water is crucial to flavorful coffee. If your tap water is heavily chlorinated or contains excess minerals, it’s definitely a good idea to opt for filtered or bottled water for use in brewing. Distilled or soft water should be avoided also. Be sure to start with cold water. The amount of water you use is also a factor in the taste of your brew. It’s recommended to use between one and two tablespoons of ground coffee to six ounces of water. This can be adjusted to your taste preference.
Once your coffee is brewed to your liking, be sure to drink it immediately. Coffee that sits around loses its flavor. A thermal carafe is a good option for keeping your java hot. These tips to brew the perfect cup of coffee will ensure you start every morning off right.
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What is the Most Popular Coffee?
The popularity of coffee can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, culture, and personal preferences. There is no single “most popular” coffee worldwide, as coffee preferences are highly subjective. However, a few types of coffee are particularly well-known and widely consumed globally:
Arabica Coffee: Arabica coffee beans are known for their smooth, mild flavor and are often considered to be of higher quality compared to other coffee species. They are the most widely cultivated coffee beans globally and are used in many specialty coffee blends.
Some of Our Favorite Coffee Drink Recipes:
CAFE MOCHA (make with an Espresso/Cappuccino coffee pot)
1 cup of Espresso (2-3 oz.)
1 oz. chocolate syrup
whole milk for foaming
whipped cream
Make Espresso according to manufacturer’s directions. Preheat ½ cup of milk in the microwave to take the chill off. Put the chocolate syrup into the coffee cup. When coffee is done, pour into coffee cup, stir, and microwave for 45 seconds to make good and hot. In the meantime, foam the milk according to directions with the coffeemaker. Pour foamed milk on top of coffee, and top with whipped cream.
IRISH COFFEE
1 cup of hot coffee
1 ½ oz. Irish whiskey
1 Tbsp. brown sugar, packed (more or less to taste)
whipped cream
Add the brown sugar to the coffee, and stir to dissolve. Place in the microwave and heat for 45 seconds. Stir in the Irish whiskey, and top with whipped cream. Be quick with the whipped cream so the whiskey doesn’t have a chance to evaporate!
CAFE BUENO
1 cup of strong, hot coffee (Espresso works well)
1 1/2 ounces brandy
1 1/2 ounces Kahlua
whipped cream
Add the brandy and Kahlua to the hot coffee. Quickly top with whipped cream. This prevents the alcohol from escaping!
CAFE FRANGELICO
1 cup of strong, hot coffee (Espresso works well)
1 1/2 jiggers Frangelico
whipped cream
Stir the Frangelico into the coffee, and quickly top with whipped cream. You must do this quickly to prevent the alcohol from evaporating.
CAFE DON JUAN
1 cup of strong, hot coffee (Espresso works well)
sugar
1 oz. dark rum
1 oz. Kahlua
whipped cream
Moisten the top edge of a coffee cup with a little rum. Place a little sugar on a dish, and dip the cup into the sugar to coat rim. Add the rum and the Kahlua, and mix together. Add the hot coffee, and stir quickly to mix. Top with whipped cream. The whipped cream prevents the alcohol from escaping.
CAFE AMARETTO
1 cup of strong, hot coffee (Espresso works well)
1 oz. Amaretto
1 oz. Kahlua
whipped cream
Stir the Amaretto and Kahlua into the coffee. Quickly top with whipped cream. This prevents the alcohol from evaporation!
CAPPUCCINO VIVACE (serves 4)
2 cups strong, hot coffee (Espresso works well)
2 cups of half and half cream
3 tsp. cocoa (non-sweetened)
3 tsp. sugar
1 oz. brandy
1 oz. rum
1 oz. gin
1 oz. light crème de cacao
1 oz. dark crème de cacao
1 oz. Galliano
whipped cream
Mix together the coffee, half and half, cocoa, and sugar in a 2 quart saucepan. Heat thoroughly, but do not boil. Mix together the brandy, rum, gin, crème de cacaos, and Galliano in a 2 cup measuring cup. Divide the spirits evenly into 4 coffee cups. Add the heated coffee mixture and top with the whipped cream. If you choose to use glass coffee cups, be sure to pour the hot coffee over a metal spoon to prevent glass breakage.
Now about that Tea – Learn More About our FAVORITE HEALTHY TEA BAGS from our Annie! Get Happy!
