Making a delicious cup of South Indian filter coffee is an art and science. Discovered centuries ago in India, filter coffee is still popular and enjoyed by many across the world. Coffee is an acquired taste, but it is also a unique beverage that can be enjoyed in different ways. Whether you’re a seasoned filter coffee drinker or just curious about how to make it, here’s a guide on how to drink South Indian filter coffee.
Brewing South Indian filter coffee involves infusing the mixture of decoction, boiled coffee (decoction) and chicory in the hot boiling water. The preparation process involves grinding the coffee beans, boiling the liquid and then pressing it into a decoction – a fancy way of saying a thick, sticky liquid that is used to make coffee. Cafes and restaurants across India are known for serving the unique filter coffee.
Choosing the right coffee beans is key to making South Indian filter coffee. It is traditionally made with a combination of chicory and coffee beans. The chicory acts as a flavor enhancer, while the coffee adds robustness. Arabica is the preferred variety of south Indian coffee beans due to its aromatic and mild flavor. The quality of the beans is also important to make sure that the coffee has its signature flavor – smooth, rich and ideally not too acidic.
The brewing part of South Indian filter coffee involves boiling the coffee and chicory together in hot water over the stove. The amount of water and coffee used must be carefully balanced to get the right flavor and strength of the coffee. Once boiled, the mixture is then collected in a cup and served. The coffee should be served hot and with a “tadka” of ginger, cardamom and other spices to add flavor.
To enjoy filter coffee at home, you will need a filter coffee maker. The filter coffee maker is used to filter the coffee after it has been brewed. It filters the coffee from the chicory and the other grounds, leaving you with a strong cup of coffee that you can enjoy without having to worry about undissolved grounds.
If you want to make filter coffee without a filter coffee maker, you can use a cloth bag to filter the coffee. You can use any type of cloth bag that is not too dense or too fine. Pour the coffee and chicory mixture in the cloth bag and press the bag through the water to strain the liquid. This method is a great alternative to the filter coffee maker, but it can also take a bit more time.
Finally, do not forget to savor the flavor of your South Indian filter coffee. It is best enjoyed black, with a sugar accompaniment. If you need a little more sweetness, you can add a bit of condensed milk to your coffee.
Essential Tips for an Even Better Cup of South Indian Filter Coffee
Making the perfect cup of South Indian filter coffee boils down to selecting the right coffee beans and following proper brewing instructions. Here are some essential tips that can help you make a better cup of South Indian filter coffee:
- Start with freshly roasted coffee beans. Fresh coffee beans are the key to making great coffee. Make sure the beans are freshly roasted and ground at the right consistency for a better flavor.
- Balance the proportions of coffee and chicory to get the right strength and flavor. The recipe usually calls for two parts coffee and one part chicory.
- Use the right type of filter coffee maker. Electric filter coffee makers are better than traditional ones as they help filter the coffee better and faster.
- Boil the coffee and chicory mixture to the right temperature. The temperature of the mixture should be between 80°C and 85°C to get the right strength and flavor of the coffee.
- Steep the coffee for the right amount of time. The coffee must be steeped for at least 8 minutes for the flavor and aroma to develop.
Serving & Storing South Indian Filter Coffee
For a traditional South Indian filter coffee experience, it is best served in small ceramic cups known as ‘kaḍais’. The coffee is poured from a copper jug called a ‘tumbler’. However, it can also be served in small mugs or even glasses.
South Indian filter coffee is best enjoyed fresh. It can be stored up to a day but should not be kept in the refrigerator as it will lose much of its flavor and aroma. If you don’t finish the entire cup, it is better to discard it as it will not taste as good.
Health Benefits of South Indian Filter Coffee
In addition to its great flavor, South Indian filter coffee also contains some health benefits. It can help improve concentration and alertness, as well as reduce inflammation, boost the immune system and encourage weight loss. It is also a good source of antioxidant polyphenols, which can help protect against chronic diseases.
Filter coffee also contains lesser tannins and caffeine when compared to regular coffee. Tannins decreases absorption of some minerals, whereas caffeine can lead to addiction in certain individuals.
Nutritional Profile of South Indian Filter Coffee
South Indian filter coffee is a great beverage to include in your daily diet. It contains significantly lesser calories compared to other caffeinated drinks, with just three calories per serving. Additionally, it is free of sugar, fat and cholesterol, making it a great way to start your day.
While South Indian filter coffee does not contain significant amounts of other nutrients, it does contains a good amount of magnesium and antioxidants. Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in various processes in the body. Antioxidants protect the body from cell damage caused by oxidative stress.
Drinking Culture in South India
Filter coffee plays an important role in the drinking culture of South India. It is often served and enjoyed during social gatherings, as well as in the workplace and at home. Even though South Indians now prefer black coffee, filter coffee is still a common part of social gatherings and family reunions.
Filter coffee is also a way of life and a symbol of hospitality in South India. In many traditional Hindu households, a freshly brewed cup of filter coffee is served to guests and visitors to welcome them. Whether you are just curious about filter coffee or looking to make it part of your daily routine, this guide can help you enjoy the unique taste of South Indian filter coffee.
