History of Coffee in India
Coffee was first introduced to India in the late 1600s and was initially a local beverage heavily linked to the Portuguese. The origin of coffee has a long history in India. Coffee was already quite popular in India when the British attempted to ban it in the 1700s. The Indians were determined to not let the British succeed and battled against the ban in the courts. Eventually, the ban was overturned and coffee was legally reintroduced to India.
Coffee was mostly grown in the southern part of India, mainly in the region of Mysore, and soon became the national drink of the burgeoning Indian Subcontinent. In India, coffee was used as a pick-me-up beverage and to help with focus and productivity. It was an ideal drink for the time to sharpen minds and provide an energy boost for workers.
The coffee industry in India has seen a significant growth in the past couple of decades as coffee shops across the country have become increasingly popular. The popularity of coffee has triggered an increase in production and consumption, making coffee a significant part of India’s economy. Today, India is the sixth largest coffee producer in the world.
Can We Drink Coffee Fast in India?
The short answer to the question is, yes. In India, drinking coffee fast is a common practice. It’s a quick and convenient way to get a caffeine boost and can be easily done at home, in cafes or bought on the street. Of course, drinking coffee fast should be done in moderation as it can have a direct impact on your health. Too much coffee may lead to jitteriness and anxiety.
When drinking coffee fast in India, the most popular way is to either gulp it down or sip it and then chug it. This is sometimes referred to as “quick sipping.” This method of drinking coffee can be dangerous since coffee has high amounts of caffeine, so it should be done in moderation. There are also alternative methods for drinking coffee in India, such as adding milk and sugar, which can help to reduce the effects of caffeine.
Moreover, drinking coffee fast in India is not the only way to consume coffee. For those who prefer a slower and more balanced approach, there are multiple options. Brewing your own coffee with one of the popular methods (like the pour-over or French press), or buying freshly roasted beans and brewing your coffee using a grinder are some of the most common ways.
Another popular way is to use a stovetop espresso maker. This method was traditionally used in Indian households before the invention of automatic espresso machines. This method is still popular and is used all over the country. Additionally, cold brew coffee is also an option to get the same caffeine boost but with a smoother and cooler taste.
How to Get the Best Out of Coffee
When drinking coffee fast in India, it’s important to pay attention to the quality and the source of the coffee. High-quality beans, roasted and freshly ground will give you the most flavorful and energizing cup of coffee. If you’re buying from street sellers, make sure to check the date it was roasted and the origin of the beans. Grinding your own beans at home is another way to ensure that you’re using the freshest and best beans for your coffee.
If you’re looking for a more flavorful cup of coffee, then using different methods like the pour-over, French press or stovetop espresso maker are the way to go. They are all designed to promote the flavour and aroma of the coffee, as well as allowing you to control the strength of the brew. Additionally, milk, sugar and other flavour enhancers can add to the taste profile of your coffee.
Benefits of Drinking Coffee in India
As mentioned earlier, coffee has a long history in India and it has an important role in everyday life. Apart from providing energy and focus, it also has many other benefits. People who consume up to four cups of coffee per day are likely to have a reduced risk of developing type-2 diabetes, stroke and various types of cancer.
Coffee is also rich in numerous compounds, such as polyphenols, which are known to be powerful antioxidants and may help fight off oxidative stress and damage. With regards to brain health, coffee helps to enhance memory and focus, as well as reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s. It has also been linked to lowering the risk of depression and anxiety.
Types of Coffee Commonly Found in India
In India, there is a wide range of coffees available, both dark roast and medium roast options. Arabica is the most popular type of coffee in the country. Additionally, there are different types of regional coffees from various estates in India, such as the Monsoon Malabar, which is grown in Kerala and is a medium roasted Arabica variety. Other popular types are the Bangalore Blue Mountain and the Kaapi Royale.
Apart from different types of Arabica, there are also various types of Robusta beans grown in India. Robusta beans have a harsher flavor and more caffeine, which is why it’s usually blended with Arabica beans for a smoother taste. Some popular Robusta beans produced in India are the 98/2 and the Monsooned Robusta.
What to Consider When Drinking Coffee in India
When drinking coffee in India, people should always pay attention to their dietary needs and the caffeine levels in the coffee they are drinking. Too much caffeine can lead to jitteriness and anxiety, so it’s important to be aware of your caffeine intake. Additionally, if you are drinking coffee with added sugar or dairy, it’s important to also keep track of your caloric intake as well as your sugar levels.
It’s also important to understand the impact coffee has on the environment. Coffee has a big environmental footprint, as it requires vast amounts of water and energy for production, so it’s important to buy coffee that has been sustainably produced from farms that practice responsible farming methods.
Conclusion
In conclusion, drinking coffee fast in India is a common practice. However, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the coffee, as well as being mindful of the environmental and health implications. Additionally, there are many different types of coffee available in India, so it’s important to be aware of the different types and their different strengths. Lastly, it’s important to keep track of your caffeine and sugar intake when consuming coffee.
