In the complex and busy world of beverages, a cup of coffee stands out as a true gem. It is much more than just a drink, it is a sensory experience, a social tradition and an infinite source of inspiration.
Coffee is one of the most consumed drinks in the world.
Roasted coffee is a complex mixture of more than 1000 bioactive compounds, some of which have potentially therapeutic antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, or anticancer effects that lend biological plausibility to recent epidemiological associations. The main active compounds are caffeine, chlorogenic acids and diterpenes, cafestol and kahweol.
Coffee undergoes a chemical metamorphosis from the unroasted green bean, and the type of bean (Arabica or Robusta), degree of roasting and preparation method, including grind setting and type of brew, will have all influence the biochemical composition of the final cup.
Legendary origins and African cradle
The origin of coffee is lost in legends. The best known tells the story of an Ethiopian shepherd who, in the 9th century, noticed the increased energy of his goats after grazing on the leaves of a shrub. Intrigued, he consumed it himself and discovered the stimulating effects of coffee.
It was in Yemen, in the 15th century, that coffee cultivation truly developed. The seeds are roasted and brewed to create a drink called "qahwah", valued for its social and religious virtues. Coffee then spread throughout the Arab world, becoming a central part of culture and daily life.
Conquest of the world and commercial growth
Coffee arrived in Europe in the 16th century, first in Venice then in other large cities. Its success was dazzling: it is attributed with curative powers and it becomes an essential drink in cafes, places of meeting and intellectual exchange.
The coffee trade is intensifying and becoming a major economic issue. The great European powers are competing for control of maritime routes and plantations, contributing to the spread coffee all over the world.
From plantation to cup: a fascinating journey
The coffee we consume today is the result of a long journey. From growing the coffee trees to roasting and preparation, each step is essential to guarantee a quality product.
1.Culture and harvest : Coffee plants grow in tropical regions with hot and humid climates. The coffee beans are picked by hand, a demanding and meticulous job.
2.Processing : There are different methods of coffee processing, the most common being washed processing and dry processing.
3.Roasting : This is the step that gives coffee its characteristic taste and aroma. Roasting time and temperature vary depending on the types of coffee desired.
4.Preparation : Coffee can be prepared in multiple ways: ground and brewed in a coffee maker, pressed in an espresso machine or filtered by hand.
A multi-faceted drink
Coffee today comes in an infinite number of varieties, each with its own characteristics and flavors. Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, Excelsa: the species of coffee trees and the production terroirs offer a rich and varied aromatic palette.
Cappuccino, latte macchiato, espresso, Americano, filter coffee: the preparation methods and coffee recipes are as numerous as the tastes and desires.
More than just a drink, a cultural symbol
Coffee goes well beyond its exquisite taste; it also embodies profound social rituals across the world. From the bustling cafes of Italy, where people gather to chat and enjoy espresso, to the traditional coffee ceremonies of Ethiopia, where the brewing process is a celebrated act, each culture has its own coffee-related traditions. Whether it's a quick morning coffee break or a slow sip during a gathering with friends, coffee unites people and creates invaluable bonds.
Cultural and artistic impact
Coffee also has the ability to inspire creativity and stimulate the mind. Many writers, artists and thinkers have found the elixir of their imagination in a cup of coffee. From the historic cafés of Paris that hosted intellectuals and revolutionaries to contemporary cafés where creatives gather to discuss and collaborate, the café has always been at the heart of the cultural and artistic scene.
In short, coffee is much more than just a drink; it is a global cultural phenomenon that unites people, inspires creativity and awakens the senses. Whether you are a passionate coffee lover or simply curious to discover this captivating world, take the time to savor each cup and explore the many facets of this wonderful drink. After all, as the Ethiopian proverb puts it, "Coffee should be black as hell, strong as death and sweet as love."
