How to Drink Coffee with Lemon
Adding coffee and lemon together may seem like an unorthodox combination, but it is increasingly becoming a popular option. While some may find this combination repulsive, many coffee-drinkers swear by the unique flavor and experience. This method of coffee consumption has been around for centuries, yet it is still relatively new to most modern consumers.
When you consume caffeine, it’s important to understand the different effects that each ingredient has on your body. For many, the addition of citrus adds an additional layer of stimulation to the stimulating attributes of coffee. By combining these two ingredients, the drinker is able to experience enhanced focus and mental clarity.
When it comes to making coffee with lemon, finding the right balance of espresso and citrus can make all the difference. For a drink that is balanced and not too acidic or too sweet, add one teaspoonful of freshly-squeezed lemon juice to your desired caffeinated beverage. If your drink is too acidic, try adding a teaspoon of sugar or a liquid sweetener. Additionally, if you find the beverage too weak or too strong, experiment with adjusting its strength by using more or less espresso.
Experts suggest that the added citrus can turn an otherwise stressful caffeine experience into a more calming feeling. This is likely due to the effects of lemon’s antioxidants which have been known to have some anti-anxiety benefits. Not only can lemon help you to better manage your caffeine experience, but it can also be beneficial for your overall health.
In terms of flavor and taste, the combination of coffee and lemon may be considered a ‘milder’ taste. For those that don’t enjoy the sweetness of coffee or the sourness of lemon, this drink can be just the right blend. People who enjoy sweet, tart, or mild flavors may find this combination to their liking.
Ultimately, the combination of coffee and lemon can create a unique and flavorful drink that can be enjoyed in its own right. Many coffee-drinkers enjoy this combination as an afternoon pick-me-up or a pre-dinner beverage. The drink is an excellent way to take a break from the day and enjoy something a little out of the ordinary.
Traditional Preparation Method
The traditional way to prepare coffee with lemon is to use freshly-squeezed lemon juice and espresso. Start by heating a cup of water to just below boiling, approximately 200-204 degrees Fahrenheit. Subsequently, take one teaspoonful of freshly-squeezed lemon juice and add it to the heated water and stir. Finally, add the espresso directly to the hot, lemon-infused water.
Drinking coffee in this way provides many potential positive benefits and can be very enjoyable. Heating the lemon juice helps to extract more of the beneficial components, while the amount of espresso can be adjusted to meet your desired caffeine needs. Additionally, the acidity of the lemon juice helps to balance the bitterness of the espresso.
Alternative Recipe Ideas
Using freshly-squeezed lemon isn’t the only way to drink coffee with lemon. There are many alternatives, such as brewed tea and syrup, that can be experimented with. For those looking for something a bit more unique, try adding a splash of cold-brewed tea to a shot of espresso with a few drops of lemon essential oil. Additionally, if you don’t like the taste of espresso, try adding a small amount of sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup, to your beverage.
Another great way to enjoy coffee with lemon is to use a flavored syrup. Make a cup of espresso and then add a teaspoon or two of a flavored syrup, such as raspberry or vanilla. Then, add the freshly-squeezed lemon juice and stir. This gives the drink a more complex flavor, while the added citrus helps to balance out the sweetness of the syrup.
For a more subdued flavor, try using oat milk or almond milk as a base. Adding a light splash of these liquids helps to mellow out the sharp taste of the espresso and lemon. Additionally, these milks can help to make the drink more creamy and silky in texture.
Health Benefits of Lemon in Coffee
In addition to the unique flavor that it can provide, drinking coffee with lemon also has many potential health benefits. As previously mentioned, the antioxidant components of the lemon can help to reduce anxiety and offer calming effects. Furthermore, the vitamin C in the lemon may help to boost your immune system and fight against common colds and viruses.
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components of both coffee and lemon also can help to reduce disease risks. Research has linked caffeine consumption to improved cardiovascular health, while lemon is rich in antioxidants which can help to reduce oxidative stress.
Finally, lemon in combination with coffee may also help to maintain cortisol levels. Cortisol is an important hormone that helps to regulate our wake-sleep cycle, stress responses, and metabolism. Studies suggest that consuming lemon-infused coffee may help to maintain better cortisol balance, which may result in improved overall health.
Additional Additions for Improved Flavor
For those looking to spice up their lemon-infused coffee, there are a few additional ingredients that can help to improve the flavor. For instance, a small amount of salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon can all add interesting flavors to the beverage. Additionally, some spices, such as cardamom and turmeric, can be added to the drink for more complex and interesting flavors.
For those looking for a healthier and more nutritious beverage, try adding some plant-based milk to your coffee with lemon. Almond milk and oat milk are both excellent options that provide extra nutrition, and also help to mellow out the flavor of the lemon. You can also try adding a bit of honey or maple syrup to sweeten your drink, while still maintaining the beneficial properties of the lemon.
Finally, a dollop of coconut cream or coconut oil can be used to not only give the drink a rich, creamy texture, but also to provide additional health and wellness benefits. Coconut oil is rich in healthy fats, which can help to reduce inflammation and can aid in the digestion of food.
Conclusion – What To Consider
When it comes to coffee with lemon, there is no exact science. Everyone’s preferences and tastes are different, so experimentation is key. Whether you enjoy a milder flavor, a sweeter one, or something a bit more unique and complex, the combination of coffee and lemon can offer something for everyone. Be sure to consider the other additions, such as plant-based milk, spices, and essential oils to enhance the flavor and the potential health benefits of your coffee with lemon.
