Coffee is one of the most popular and beloved beverages all around the world today. But have you ever wondered how coffee was made in ancient times?
The history of coffee dates back to the 9th century, where it was first discovered in Ethiopia. From there, it spread to Yemen, Egypt, and eventually throughout the rest of the world. In this article, we’ll explore how coffee was made in ancient times.
Discovery of Coffee
The discovery of coffee is surrounded by a bit of folklore. According to one popular legend, a goat herder named Kaldi noticed that his goats became energized and hyperactive after consuming berries from a certain plant.
Out of curiosity, he tried these berries himself and found that they had a similar effect on him. This plant was later identified as Coffea Arabica, which is now one of the most widely cultivated species for producing coffee.
Coffee Preparation Techniques
The preparation techniques for coffee were vastly different in ancient times compared to what we do today. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that coffee was prepared in different parts of the world:
Egypt
In Egypt, coffee beans were roasted over an open fire until they turned black and shiny. Then they were ground into a fine powder using mortar and pestle. This powder was then mixed with hot water and sugar, creating a thick paste-like substance that would be consumed with a spoon.
Turkey
Turkish coffee is still famous today for its unique taste and preparation method. In ancient times, this involved boiling finely ground coffee beans with water in a special pot called a cezve or ibrik. The mixture would be brought to boil several times until it became frothy and then poured into small cups.
Ethiopia
In Ethiopia, where coffee originated from, the beans were roasted, crushed, and then boiled with water to create a strong, bitter drink. This preparation method is similar to how coffee is still made in some parts of Africa today.
Conclusion
Coffee has come a long way since its discovery in ancient Ethiopia. From the simple roasting and boiling techniques used by the Ethiopians to the complex espresso machines used today, coffee has evolved into a true art form. Yet, despite all these changes, one thing remains constant- the love for a good cup of coffee.