Introduction
A red eye coffee drink is a type of coffee beverage made with both coffee and espresso. It is also known as a “shot in the dark” and has a characteristic deep red hue which gives the beverage its name. Red eye coffee has been around a long time and has been dubbed a “classic” amongst coffee aficionados, but does it really stand out from the hundreds of other coffee drinks? What makes it so special? This article will look at what a red eye is, its history, its health benefits, and whether it really is the ultimate coffee beverage.
What is a Red Eye?
A red eye coffee is simply a type of coffee made by pouring a shot of espresso into a mug of regular coffee. This results in a caffeine-packed beverage that is quite strong since you are combining two sources of caffeine. The espresso adds an extra layer of bitterness and creaminess to the beverage and gives it the deep red color. Red eye coffee is a popular drink choice among coffee drinkers and can be ordered at many coffee shops.
History of Red Eye Coffee
The exact origin of red eye coffee is not known, but it is believed to have been around since at least the 19th century. It is associated with the American west and likely originated from cowboys and prospectors who would add a shot of espresso to their standard coffee to fuel long days in the saddle. The drink eventually made its way to American cities and by the 1970s, it was a popular drink in coffee shops.
Health Benefits of Red Eye Coffee
Despite the high levels of caffeine, red eye coffee is actually quite healthy and can offer many benefits. Since it contains both coffee and espresso, it contains a variety of antioxidants and can be beneficial in reducing inflammation and improving heart health. It is also linked to improved alertness and concentration and can help to keep you awake and energized during long workdays. Finally, it can aid digestion and even boost the metabolism.
Is the Red Eye Really the Ultimate Coffee Drink?
While the red eye is certainly an enjoyable and energizing beverage, it is hard to label it as the “ultimate” coffee drink since everyone’s tastes and preferences are different. Many coffee drinkers may still prefer a simple cup of black coffee or an iced latte to a red eye. However, what makes the red eye unique is that it combines two of the biggest sources of caffeine into one beverage, making it the perfect choice for those in need of a quick energy boost.
Hassle of Making Red Eye Coffee
Unfortunately, making a red eye at home can be a bit of a hassle. In addition to having to measure out both coffee and espresso, you also need specialized equipment such as a portafilter, a tamper, and a espresso machine which can be quite costly. As a result, many people opt to just get their red eye from a local coffee shop where it is already made.
Criticisms of Red Eye Coffee
Many people criticize red eye coffee for its high levels of caffeine. Since it contains both coffee and espresso, it can have a stimulating effect that may leave some feeling over-caffeinated or jittery. In addition, if you are not used to drinking coffee every day, adding an extra shot of espresso can be a bit too much for your system to handle.
Alternatives to Red Eye Coffee
If you are looking for a caffeinated beverage that is a bit less intense than a red eye, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. Iced coffees and macchiatos are slightly lower in caffeine compared to a red eye and can be more suitable for those just starting out with coffee. There are also a variety of decaffeinated options such as decaf lattes or decaf cappuccinos.
Aesthetics of Red Eye Coffee
The unique deep red hue of red eye coffee also makes it aesthetically appealing, making it a great choice if you are looking for something interesting to drink. Many coffee shops offer drinks that are made with different flavors or colors which can give your drink a unique twist.
Cost Efficiency of Red Eye Coffee
Finally, red eye coffee is also cost efficient since it requires only two ingredients; coffee and espresso. This makes it a great choice for those who are on a budget but still want to enjoy a delicious and stimulating beverage.
Pairing of Red Eye Coffee
The intense bitter of red eye coffee makes it well suited for pairing with desserts. Since it can overpower the flavors of most food, it pairs best with something sweet, such as a piece of cake or a doughnut. This can help to balance out the flavors and create a more enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Red eye coffee has come a long way since its inception, but it still has many of the same characteristics that made it popular all those years ago. Its unique deep red hue, intense flavors, and energizing effects make it the perfect choice for those who want to get an extra boost of energy. Whether it is the ultimate coffee beverage is up for debate, but it certainly stands out from the hundreds of other coffee drinks out there.
