Who hasn't craved the cozy ritual of curling up with a steaming mug of coffee, a piece of cake and a captivating book when the weather turns chilly? The Swedes even have a word for it:fika.
Traditionally, coffee has been a solitary indulgence. However, there's a growing trend of pairing this beloved beverage with many people's other great passion: food. This culinary practice, often seen in upscale restaurants and gourmet coffee shops, can elevate both the coffee and the food to new heights.
The Science Behind Pairing
The science behind pairing coffee with food is complex and multifaceted, not unlike wine and food pairing. It involves considering factors like acidity, bitterness, sweetness, body, and aroma in both the coffee and the food. When these elements complement each other, the result is a harmonious and enjoyable experience.
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Acidity: Coffee with high acidity, often described as bright or tart, pairs well with foods that can cut through the acidity, such as salty or fatty dishes.
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Bitterness: Bitter coffee, often associated with darker roasts, like our Moka Jenne Bio espresso blend, can be balanced by foods with sweetness or umami flavours.
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Sweetness: Sweet coffee, such as those flavoured with syrups or spices, pairs well with savoury or salty foods.
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Body: Coffee with a full body, often described as heavy or thick, such as those made with a stovetop espresso maker can complement rich and hearty foods.
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Aroma: The aroma of coffee can interact with the aromas of food, creating a complex and enjoyable sensory experience.
Specific Coffee-Food Pairings
Like any good pairing, the best way to discover your favourite coffee-food combinations is to experiment. Don't be afraid to try new things and see what works for you. With a little experimentation, you'll uncover a world of delicious and harmonious pairings.
That said, here are a few classic coffee-food pairings to get you started:
- Espresso and chocolate: Espresso is a classic pairing with chocolate. The strong, bitter flavour of espresso complements the sweetness and richness of chocolate. Find Faema's best selection of espresso machines here.
- Latte and pastries: A latte or a flat white, both made with steamed milk and espresso, is a versatile pairing that can complement many pastries. A vanilla latte pairs well with croissants, while a caramel latte can complement cinnamon rolls.
- Cold brew and spicy food: Cold brew, a concentrated coffee made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water, can be a refreshing pairing for spicy food. The smooth, low-acidity flavour of cold brew can help to cool down your palate.
- Americano and savoury dishes: An americano, made from adding hot water to espresso, or a coffee made with a French press, is a versatile pairing that can complement many savoury dishes. It can be a good option for pairing with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or cheese plates.
Tips for Creating Your Own Pairings
While the pairings above are a great starting point, coffee-food pairing is highly personal, so don’t be afraid to experiment further and create your own combinations. Here are a couple of tips to get the perfect pairing:
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Taste the Coffee First: Before pairing, taste the coffee on its own to identify its flavour profile. This will help you choose foods that complement or contrast with those flavours.
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Consider the Season: Seasonal foods can inspire unique pairings. For example, a pumpkin spice latte pairs well with autumnal dishes like pumpkin pie or roasted squash.
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Experiment with Brew Methods: Different brewing methods and brewing gears can bring out different flavours in coffee. Try pairing the same coffee brewed using different methods with various foods to see how the flavours change.
Go Beyond the Coffee and Food Pairing Basics
In addition to the traditional pairings discussed above, there are many other creative ways to pair coffee with food. For example, you can use coffee as an ingredient in recipes, such as beef chili or as a marinade for pork and beef. For more ideas, have a look at our recipes page.
Whether you’re enjoying a cozy breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a decadent dessert, the right coffee pairing can make your meal even more enjoyable. So, grab your favourite mug, brew a fresh pot of your favourite coffee or espresso, and start exploring the delicious world of coffee and food pairings.
