Cold brew coffee has become an increasingly popular way to consume coffee for many people. It is known for its unique flavour and lower acidity as compared to regular brewed coffee. The main difference between cold brew and regular coffee is that cold brew is made with cold water and steeped for hours, instead of being heated. But what about drinking it? Is it the same as drinking cold rain coffee? Well, let’s explore whether drinking cold brew coffee cold is recommended or not.
There are many benefits to consuming cold brew coffee. Firstly, it is known to be less acidic than regular coffee, so it’s gentler on the stomach. Secondly, since it is cold steeped and not heated, it brings out more flavour nuances in the coffee beans. And thirdly, it’s easier to make in large batches. With these benefits, it’s no wonder why cold brew is a popular choice for coffee drinkers! But what about drinking it cold?
Most experts agree that if you are drinking cold brew coffee cold, the best way to do so is through an iced cold brew. By using ice cubes, you can get the perfect balance between temperature and flavour. Moreover, using ice cubes ensures that the beverage is not too sweet, as you can control the amount of sweetness according to your preference. Furthermore, coffee that is served over ice can stay colder for a longer period of time and will still taste delicious.
Aside from iced coffee, another popular way to consume cold brew coffee is to add it to smoothies or shakes. By adding cold brew to these recipes, you can get a boost of caffeine and an incredible flavour to your smoothies. In addition, cold brew can also be used in cooking recipes. For instance, you can use it to marinate meats and even add it to desserts. This way, you get an intense and full-flavoured coffee.
However, while there are many benefits to drinking cold brewed coffee cold, it is important to note that there are some drawbacks as well. Firstly, when drinking cold brewed coffee cold, you may notice that the flavour tends to be a bit weaker than when it is served hot. This is because the cold does not allow for the chemical reactions that take place when coffee is brewed hot. Secondly, some people find that consuming cold brew coffee cold can sometimes lead to an upset stomach. Lastly, cold brew can be more expensive to make than regular brewed coffee.
The verdict is ultimately up to you, but in general, it is safe to say that cold brew coffee cold can be done. By using methods such as adding ice cubes or using it in cooking recipes, you can ensure that you get the perfect balance of flavour and temperature. If you are looking for a unique way to enjoy your coffee, then cold brew is certainly a great option!
Health Benefits of Cold Brew Coffee
Apart from the flavours and unique taste that cold brew coffee provides, it is also known to have a lot of health benefits. For example, cold brew coffee is known to have lower acidity levels which makes it less likely to cause stomach issues when compared to regular brewed coffee. Additionally, cold brew coffee also retains more antioxidants as it is not exposed to heat, which makes it beneficial for overall health. Furthermore, since it is cold steeped, it removes some of the bitter aspects of coffee, making it much milder. This allows people to enjoy cold brew coffee without the bitterness and to reap the health benefits that it offers.
In addition to its health benefits, cold brew coffee is also easier to make in bulk. This means that you can make large batches ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This can be incredibly handy for busy mornings as you can just grab your cold brew and head out. Not only does this save time but it also is hassle-free. You no longer have to worry about boiling water or grinding coffee beans in the morning as you can just pour yourself a cup of cold brew and you’re good to go!
Finally, cold brew coffee is also a great option for those who are looking for something a bit lighter. As mentioned earlier, cold brew is known for its smoother, less acidic taste which can be appealing for those who don’t prefer the strong flavour that regular coffee provides. This makes cold brew coffee a great option for those looking for something a bit less strong and more refreshing.
Negatives Side of Drinking Cold Brew
Although cold brew coffee has many advantages and benefits, it also has some drawbacks. Firstly, its flavour can be a bit weaker when compared to regular brewed coffee, as the cold temperature doesn’t allow for the chemical reactions that normally occur. This means that you won’t get the intensity of flavour that you would otherwise get when drinking regular hot coffee. Moreover, the cool temperature can also hurt the natural sweetness of the coffee which can be unappealing for some.
In addition to its weaker flavour, cold brew can also have a negative effect on your stomach. Drinking cold brew may lead to an upset stomach when consumed in large amounts as its lower acidity tends to be a bit harder to digest. This means that it is important to drink cold brew responsibly and when consumed in moderation, it should be just fine. Finally, cold brew can be relatively expensive to make if you are buying the pre-ground beans, so this is something to be aware of when considering purchasing it.
Alternatives to Cold Brew Coffee
If you are not a fan of cold brew coffee or are looking for an alternative, then there are a few options that you can explore. Firstly, you can opt for regular brewed coffee. It is still an incredibly popular option as it can provide a strong, intense flavour that many people enjoy. Furthermore, regular brewed coffee can also be served hot or cold, depending on your preference. Another option is to try out cold drip coffee. It is similar to cold brew, but it is much faster to make and still retains the smooth and less acidic flavours that cold brew is known for.
If neither of these options appeal to you, there are other alternatives such as organic or almond milk coffee or herbal teas. Organic coffee is a great way to get your caffeine fix without the added acidity of regular coffee. Additionally, almond milk coffee is also a great option for those who are lactose intolerant. Lastly, for those who are looking for an even healthier option, herbal teas can be an excellent way to get your coffee flavour without caffeine. No matter which one you choose, these alternatives provide a great way to enjoy coffee without having to consume cold brew coffee cold.
Preparing Cold Brew Coffee
When it comes to prepping cold brew, the key is to get the right balance of grind size and water temperature. Generally, it is best to use a medium-coarse grind size, as this allows the water to easily pass through and extract the flavour from the beans. If you use a grind that is too fine, it can create an overly strong flavour, and if you use a grind that is too coarse, it could lead to coffee that is weak or bitter.
In addition, the temperature of the water is also important. For those who are making cold brew coffee cold, it is best to use cold to room temperatures. Hot water can be used if you want to speed up the process, but the flavour will be weaker since the hot water will not extract as much flavour. It is important to note that all of this depends on your personal preference and what you are looking to get out of your cold brew.
Once you have the grind and temperature sorted, the next step is to steep the coffee. This is usually done in a french press. Cold brew can steep anywhere between 12 to 24 hours, but it largely depends on your preference in strength and flavour. If you are looking for a stronger coffee, you can steep it for a longer period of time, and if you are looking for a milder coffee, you can steep it for a shorter period of time.
Coffee Accessories for Cold Brew Coffee
Finally, if you are looking to perfect your cold brew experience, there are a few accessories that can help. Firstly, investing in a quality water filter is a great way to improve the taste of your cold brew. Water filters remove any impurities that may affect the taste of the coffee which can help improve the flavour dramatically. Additionally, purchasing a stainless steel travel mug can be great for taking your cold brew on the go. There are a plethora of travel mugs on the market, so you will be sure to find one that suits your preferences.
Another thing you can look into is getting a grinder specifically designed for cold brew. This can help you get the perfect grind size as previously discussed and can be incredibly handy when you want to make your own cold brew at home. Alternatively, you can purchase pre-ground cold brew beans to help make the process easier. There are a few companies that specialise in cold brew, so do some research to find one that suites your needs and tastes.
Other Uses for Cold Brew
Finally, apart from drinking cold brew coffee cold, there are also a few other ways that you can use it. One of the most popular ways is to make coffee cocktails. By adding cold brew to cocktails, you can give them an intense coffee flavour that is perfect for coffee lovers. You can also use cold brew concentrate in baking recipes, as it can add depth and complexity to recipes. This can be a great way to add some coffee-kick to your baking game.
Another great way to use cold brew is to make cold-brew freezer pops. Just add some cold brew to your favorite freezer pop molds and freeze. This can be a great snack to enjoy during hot summer days. Lastly, you can also add cold brew to smoothies and shakes, as mentioned earlier. This can be a great way to give your smoothies and shakes a little extra kick while still being refreshing.
How to Store Cold Brew
Once you have brewed your cold brew, it is important to know how to store it properly. Generally, it is recommended to keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze cold brew for up to three months. When preparing your cold brew for storing, it is important to ensure that there is no excess oxygen as this can negatively affect the taste of the coffee. You can also add some nitrogen to the cold brew to help preserve it even further.
When storing cold brew in the refrigerator, it is also important to remember to shake the container occasionally as the oils in the coffee can settle at the bottom. Additionally, you can store cold brew in glass bottles in the refrigerator, but it is important to make sure that they are properly sealed as oxygen can still pass through. Lastly, if you are looking to store cold brew for an extended period of time, it is recommended to freeze it in an airtight container.
