Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world, possessing not only a rich taste, but also several beneficial properties.
History and origin
The history of this drink dates back thousands of years and began in ancient Ethiopia. It was there that locals first noticed the energetic effect of coffee tree berries. This discovery of the shepherd’s case led to the exploration and use it by people.
The origin is related to the legend of goats that became more active after eating the berries of the coffee bush. This attracted the attention of the monks. They began experimenting with the berries, exploring their invigorating properties.
Over time, coffee culture has spread throughout the world. In the 15th and 16th centuries, coffee became a popular drink in the Arab world, and then in the Ottoman Empire. The first coffee shops appeared there. It then spread to Europe, where it became a symbol of intellectual and social debate.
With the development of colonial ties in the 17th century, coffee was brought to America and became one of the main drinks. With the advent of industrial processing and roasting methods, coffee became available to the masses.
Today, coffee is not only a drink, but also a cultural phenomenon. It associated with social traditions and rituals, as well as a huge global industry.
A coffee tree
The coffee tree belongs to the coffee family (Rubiaceae) and the genus Coffea. There are many species, but the main ones for coffee production are “Arabica” and “Canephora” (or Robusta). The coffee tree can reach a height of 2 to 10 meters. It has dense, green foliage and white, fragrant flowers. They grow in the tropics and subtropics of Africa, Asia and Latin America, where the climate is suitable for their cultivation.
Coffee beans
The coffee bean is the seed of the coffee tree. It consists of two main parts: the shell (fruit peel) and the grain kernel (bean). As already mentioned, there are two main types of beans – Arabica and Robusta.
- Arabica is a high-quality bean that grows at altitudes between 600 and 2000 meters. They have a more complex taste and aroma than robusta.
- Canephora is more resistant to diseases and insects. These beans are often used in coffee blends and to produce instant. They grow at lower altitudes from 0 to 600 meters.
After harvesting, the grains undergo a processing process. This includes drying and removing the fruit peel. They are then fried, which gives them their characteristic taste and aroma. Roasted coffee beans are used to make different types of coffee, from espresso to filter coffee.
Chemical composition and nutrients
Coffee beans contain some chemical compounds and nutrients that affect their taste, aroma, and effects on the human body.
- Caffeine is the main biologically active substance in coffee beans. It affects the central nervous system, increases wakefulness and improves cognitive function.
- Fats and oils. Coffee beans contain about 15-20% fats and oils. These components affect the texture and taste of this drink.
- Carbohydrates. Coffee beans contain about 40-50% carbohydrates, including sugars, starch and fiber.
- Proteins. Approximately 10-12% of the composition of coffee beans is protein, including amino acids necessary for energy and growth.
- Polyphenols and antioxidants. Coffee beans are rich in polyphenols such as chlorogenic acid and quercetin. They have antioxidant properties and protect cells from free radical damage.
- Minerals. Coffee beans contain various minerals, including potassium, magnesium and phosphorus, which play an important role in metabolism. It also contains B vitamins.
Benefit for health
Drinking coffee can provide a lot of health benefits:
- Increase vigor and concentration. Caffeine helps improve cognitive function, alertness, and reaction time.
- Protection from diseases. Antioxidants in coffee have been linked to a reduced risk of various diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancer.
- Physical activity. Caffeine may help improve athletic performance such as endurance and reaction time.
- Effect on digestion. Some people note that coffee can stimulate digestion due to its fat and oil content.
However, consuming large doses of caffeine or consuming it late at night can negatively impact sleep and cause insomnia.
Types of coffee drinks
Espresso
Espresso is a short and strong drink. It is prepared by pumping hot water under high pressure through finely-ground coffee beans. A single espresso is usually around 30ml. It is quite dense and has a rich taste. Serve in small cups called demitasse.
Americano
Americano is espresso diluted with hot water. It has a milder taste compared to pure espresso and has a larger volume. Typically 30-60 ml espresso with hot water added. Light and more diluted than straight espresso.
Latte
Latte is an espresso-based coffee drink with the addition of hot milk and milk foam. More than espresso or Americano, from 150 to 300 ml. Creamy and soft consistency, with milk foam added on top. Sometimes syrups are added to lattes to change the taste (vanilla, caramel, etc.).
Cappuccino
Cappuccino consists of equal parts espresso, hot milk and foam. Sometimes cocoa or cinnamon is sprinkled on top to enhance the taste.
Mocha
Mocha is a drink combining espresso, hot milk and chocolate syrup. It has a creamier consistency with a rich chocolate flavor. Decorate with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles.
Raf
Raffle is a magic drink that is becoming more and more popular. It consists of espresso, milk and vanilla syrup, topped with sweet milk foam. Sweet and aromatic consistency.
Italian Mocha
Italian mocha is prepared in a special coffee maker called a mocha pot. It is stronger and richer, with a characteristic aroma and taste.
Conclusion
Coffee is a drink that invigorates and brings pleasure. It is also a source of useful substances that can have a beneficial effect on human health. Consume it in reasonable quantities to get maximum benefits. Each of these drinks has its characteristics in preparation, taste and structure, which makes coffee a pleasure for lovers of a variety of taste sensations.