Try Different Types of Coffee
Coffee can be brewed in a variety of ways; from an espresso to a pour-over. Different types of coffee have different notes and flavors, and some may be more enjoyable than others. Buying specialty coffees from small-batch roasters can surprise you with unique flavors. Drinkers who don’t care for the taste of black coffee may prefer cappuccino, café au lait, flat white, and other types of coffee beverages. Before writing off coffee completely, experiment with different types.
Add Something Sweet
A pinch of sugar, spoonful of honey, or a splash of cream can make coffee a more pleasant flavor. Try going sugar-free by adding sugar substitutes, such as agave syrup or coconut sugar. These natural, plant-based sweeteners still add a hint of sweetness without adding calories or relying on artificial sweeteners. Whether it be a flavored syrup or a dollop of whipped cream, a bit of something sweet can make coffee much more enjoyable.
Lower the Temperature
Most people drink coffee brewed between 195 – 205 degrees F; for people who don’t like coffee, this temperature can be too intense. Try lowering the temperature a few degrees, then take a sip and adjust as needed. Generally, the lower the temperature, the smoother the coffee. Temperature affects more than just the flavor; the finer the grind, the more bitterness, the lower the temperature, the less bitter the coffee.
Go Cold
Cold brew coffee has become popular over the last few years, and with good reason. Without heat, coffee loses its edge and instead becomes sweeter and less acidic. To make cold brew coffee, combine coarsely ground coffee and cool water in a pitcher and let is steep for 8-12 hours. The coffee will be strong and concentrated, which makes it perfect for adding cold milk or water to. Diluting the coffee will reduce the bitterness and also makes it more refreshing.
Buy Quality Beans
Buying freshly roasted, ethically sourced beans will ensure a more enjoyable cup of coffee. High-quality coffee beans are harvested from sustainable farms, and this ethical and quality production makes for a tastier cup. Quality beans provide you with the potential for a flavorful cup, especially if roasted within the first few months.
Add Milk or Coconut Milk
Often, adding milk to coffee is a great way to mask any bitterness. Simply stirring a spoonful of sugar or a splash of cream into your cup won’t cut it; full-fat milk will do the trick. If lactose isn’t your thing, opt for reduced-fat, oat, rice, almond or coconut milks. Creamers are a quick and easy way to achieve a milky taste without the addition of sugar or other sweeteners.
Try Other Hot Drinks
If there is no luck with altering coffee to make it more palatable, rest assured there are other warm alternatives to choose from. Hot tea is a great way to satisfy a hot beverage craving, and it offers a variety of flavors and potential health benefits. Hot chocolate is another option, plus it’s perfect for warming up during a cold winter day. Add marshmallows and make it a special treat.
The Benefits of Drinking Coffee
While it’s not an absolute must-have in your daily routine, drinking coffee offers many health benefits. Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from disease. It can increase your energy, improve concentration, and may even help to reduce the risk of developing dementia or Parkinson’s disease. Coffee can also help fight against type 2 diabetes, support kidney health and improve liver health.
Yoghurt Drinks
Yoghurt drinks are all the rage these days, and they are an excellent way to drink something hot without drinking coffee. ‘Bovril’ is a type of yoghurt with added spices, cocoa or honey. Bovril can be served hot or cold, so it can be enjoyed all year round. If a hot bovril isn’t for you, try a creamy vegan smoothie or a creamy, healthier sweet shake made from yoghurt, fruit and a sprinkle of honey.
Add Supplements
Drinking coffee doesn’t have to be unpleasant. If black coffee still tastes too strong, consider adding supplements that can enhance the flavor and potentially the health benefits. Studies have suggested potential benefits from adding collagen, MCT oil, a spoonful of honey, or even bulletproof coffee. Supplements are a great way to experiment and find new, interesting flavors.
Upgrade Your Brew Method
Finally, technology has allowed coffee lovers and non-coffee drinkers alike to upgrade their brew method and make coffee more enjoyable. Pour-over coffee makers are particularly popular, as the longer steeping time results in a smoother cup. When using a drip or espresso machine, try using a finer or coarser grind, depending on preference. With technology and alteration, there’s bound to be a way to make that cup of coffee more enjoyable.
