With the increasing popularity of plant-based diets, an important question that is often asked is whether or not it’s possible to still drink coffee when following a plant-based diet. Unfortunately, many coffee drinks are made with dairy milks or creamers that invalidate their use in a vegan lifestyle.
Fortunately, there are still a variety of options for those that are plant-based and still love to sip their morning beverage. The most important thing to keep in mind if you are following a plant-based diet is to choose coffee Brews and Roasts that meet your requirements and dietary needs. Plant based coffee drinks are typically made with almond, oat, coconuts, macadamia and soy milk.
When considering what coffee to choose, there are several flavours and coffee types to choose from. This can be overwhelming, so it’s important to understand which beans and roasts are the best for plant-based diets. Nutritionists and experts recommend fresh ground coffee beans, as these haven’t gone through pre-packaging, thus they do not contain any hidden fats or animal products. Moreover, single-origin and organic coffees are considered to be healthier compared to ‘normal’ coffee as they are pesticide-free and vegan-suitable.
An important factor to consider when following a plant-based diet is the way you prepare your coffee. It is recommended to use filtered water and plant-based milk alternatives and to avoid adding sugar or other sweeteners for health reasons. Plant-based milks contain fewer saturated fats and have almost zero cholesterol, making them much healthier than cow milk or cream.
For those of you who enjoy a cold or iced coffee, there are numerous vegan-friendly options to choose from. Have an icy mocha with almond milk, a cappuccino with oat milk, or an iced latte with a splash of coconut milk.
Brews and Roasts
Coffee has hundreds of flavours, textures, and grades that can be divided into two main categories: Brews and Roasts. Roasts refer to the colour of the coffee bean after it has been roasted, whereas brews refer to the way the coffee is prepared.
The most popular types of roasts include light, medium, and dark. The light roast generally has a more acidic taste, while the medium and dark roasts are more in the middle range. Light roast coffee is great for plant-based diets because it has less caffeine and contains notes of citrus and fruit. The medium roast is perfect for a smoother, nuttier flavor, while the dark roast can give a bold, robust flavor and higher caffeine content.
Brews typically include espresso, French press, pour-over, drip, cold brew, and aeropress. Espresso is very concentrated and typically made with an espresso machine. French press is a way to precisely measure the amount of coffee used. Pour-over is a slow process that involves pouring water over the grounds. Drip coffee is made with a coffeemaker, and cold brew and aeropress are both methods of making iced coffee.
Benefits for Health
When it comes to the health benefits of coffee, there are a few things that you should consider. Firstly, coffee contains important antioxidants and has been linked to reducing the risk of certain diseases such as diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. Moreover, drinking coffee can also help to increase your metabolism and boost your energy levels.
Coffee has been found to contain a number of benefits for plant-based dieters. It has been observed that diets that include coffee may help to reduce the effects of inflammation caused by a plant-based diet. Furthermore, coffee can help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancers, aid in promoting a healthy heart and protect against the effects of aging.
Go Green
As plant-based diets are becoming increasingly popular, more people are looking for sustainable coffee alternatives. For example, Fairtrade coffee is one of the most sustainable coffee types as it ensures that coffee farmers are paid fairly for their work. Additionally, sustainable coffee is also usually ethically-sourced and organic, so it is much better for the environment.
In addition to sustainable coffee, it is important to consider ways to reduce your coffee-related waste. Many coffee shops offer discounts on coffee when you bring your own reusable cup. This not only helps to reduce coffee-related waste but also reduces your coffee cost.
Types of Plant-Based Milk
There are many types of plant-based milk on the market, each with their own unique flavour and health benefits. Soy milk is one of the most popular plant-based milks and is a great source of protein, calcium and vitamin D. Almond milk is also a popular choice due to its mild, creamy taste and high protein content. Other options include coconut, oats, macadamia, and cashew milk.
It is important to note that some plant-based milks may have sugar added to them, so it is best to choose an unsweetened or low-sugar variety. As with any plant-based food, it is also important to check for additives and preservatives that could interfere with your plant-based diet.
Flavoured Additions
If you want to add some flavour to your coffee while still following a plant-based diet, there are a few options. Plant-based syrups such as coconut, almond, or oat are all great ways to add some sweetness and flavour to your cup of joe. There are also vegan-friendly chocolate powders that can be added to make mochas, as well as dairy-free creamers.
Additionally, if you want to enjoy a further special treat, there are a number of dairy-free whipped cream products on the market. These are great for adding to cappuccinos or lattes and provide a slightly sweeter and creamier taste.
The Takeaway
Coffee is one of those beloved beverages for which many people find it hard to avoid. With the increasing popularity of plant-based diets, it is important to keep in mind that not all coffee will be suitable for them. Fortunately, there is a wide range of options for those that are plant-based and still enjoy a cup of hot or cold coffee. Plant-based milks, sustainable coffee beans, and dairy-free alternatives make it much easier to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while still following a plant-based diet.
