The Smell and Aroma of Coffee
There is a certain allure to the smell of coffee, which is both unique and unforgettable. Whilst it can be initially off-putting to those who dislike the taste, the aroma is often quite comforting and has been thought to help stimulate mental focus due to its complexity. Being such a strong beverage it can be difficult to get accustomed to, but more often than not if you can get past the smell, you can learn to enjoy it.
The intensity of different coffee brews can be overwhelming for some, especially those who are new to drinking coffee. The distinctive aroma of coffee is one of the most defining features and every coffee originates from a different kind of bean, so each one can be very varied in their fragrance.
Coffee is a popular beverage worldwide, enjoyed by millions of people in different cultures. On average, one person consumes two to four cups per day and the amount of coffee produced has been increasing yearly across the world. With that said, coffee can be potentially detrimental to those with a heightened sense of sensitivity.
Decaffeinated coffee might ease you into the drinking the beverage in the beginning, since it contains an extremely low trace of caffeine. This could work for those who wish to avoid the physical effects of caffeine such as increased heart rate, restlessness and anxiety but still desire the alluring fragrances and tastes that come with it. There are also flavored versions available on the market, which are often easier to get accustomed to.
Therapeutic Effects of Coffee
Apart from its rich and varied aroma, coffee has a number of health benefits that come with regularly drinking this beverage. It has been linked to the prevention of conditions such as diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. Studies have found that the two most important components in coffee are caffeine and the antioxidant chlorogenic acid and together both components can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Research has also suggested that coffee may be beneficial for improving cognitive function. However, it’s important to only drink coffee in moderation and not over consume, as it can have a negative effect on the body in the long run. Too much caffeine can lead to irritability, restlessness and disturb your normal sleeping patterns.
Whilst coffee can have some other negative side-effects it’s important to note that overall it is a healthy beverage. Coffee can be a great addition to a good diet and an enjoyable break in the day. It has been a part of human culture for over a thousand years and it is also a valued pick-up during moments of exhaustion or fatigue.
Enjoying Coffee in Slow Measures
For those wanting to start drinking coffee, it is best to build up a tolerance gradually and avoid jumps in quantity and strength of the beverage. When it comes to the taste, take it slow. Generally, a simple brewed cup of black coffee is the best starting point, without having to worry about the sweet or sugary elements that can be acquired in coffees from cafes.
Once you are comfortable with basic black coffee, trying stronger and more intense flavours such as espresso is a natural progression. Typically, espresso has a more intense flavour due to the shorter extraction time, making it great for those who want more character in their cup.
To enjoy coffee to the fullest it is best to use fresh, whole beans and grind them at home with an electric grinder. This will make the extraction process easier and the result will be far superior to pre-ground packets. There are also a number of grinders on the market that can contain up to eighty different settings of grind, allowing you to customize your perfect cup.
When brewing a cup of coffee it is also important to have the right equipment to make a strong cup of coffee. A scale and a timer for the extraction process can be both extremely accurate and if you have the resources available should be implemented. Along with the right equipment also allow time for your coffee to reach the perfect temperature, allowing all the flavors and nutrients to become present in the cup.
Moderation is Key
One of the main tips to drinking coffee when you hate it is to remember that moderation is key. Many of us overuse coffee, so there’s no need to rush and consume too much. Start slow and let your body get used to the taste and intensity of coffee before trying something more daring or engaging. Buy good quality beans, and make sure to keep them fresh and stored correctly.
When it comes to picking types of coffee, you should also go with what your body feels is right. Some like lighter coffee varieties, and some like heavier coffee varieties. You could even consider adding coffee in other forms such as cold brew coffee, coffee beans, instant coffee, coffee syrup, coffee capsules, and capsules for coffee machines.
Moving away from the traditional cup of coffee can be a great way to start drinking coffee, when you normally don’t. You can also mix coffee with other ingredients to make a beverage that’s more palatable to your taste buds. A popular choice is an affogato which is a standard scoop of vanilla ice cream drenched in a shot of espresso; this can be enjoyed after a meal or as a dessert.
The Social Element of Drinking Coffee
Another great way to start drinking coffee when you hate it is to take advantage of the social element of drinking coffee. Meeting up with friends or having a chat over coffee is a great way to make it part of your lifestyle and savor the flavors you enjoy in a comfortable setting. This can also provide a great opportunity to try different coffee brews and explore different flavors without being overwhelmed by the intensity.
Many places now offer a wide range of coffee drinks, which are often easier to appreciate than regular coffee. For example, try a coffee milkshake by adding ice cream, almond milk and cinnamon for a sweeter coffee. Iced coffees are another popular coffee beverage, and a great alternative to the traditional hot cup.
Whether the coffee is black, with milk or flavored, the perfect cup can be enjoyed at any time of the day. However, it’s important to remember that all coffee is not created equally and therefore it is best to know what you are drinking; be it in terms of quality, taste or strength.
Experimenting with Coffee Flavours
If you’re feeling more adventurous, why not experiment with some different types of coffee? Try different origins, such as Ethiopian or Colombian, and explore the different tastes and aromas they offer. When it comes to the grounds and beans, mix it up a bit and try different extraction methods like a French press, Aeropress and espresso using a moka pot.
You’ll want to take into account the balance between strength and sweetness. Buy beans from different places and don’t assume that one brand is the best. Taste them and figure out what you prefer. This may sound like a lot of effort and you may think that it’s a waste of time, but the rewards will certainly be worth it.
Lastly, make sure that you’re drinking high-quality coffee. Low-quality coffee could be what’s been putting you off in the past so it’s important to pay attention and find a local source for specialty coffee if possible. You should also note that freshly ground beans can make all the difference – allowing you to enjoy a much richer and better quality brew.
Variety is the Spice of Life
Drinking coffee can be a fun and rewarding activity if done correctly. Don’t forget it’s important to switch up flavours, strengths and brewing styles often. Variety is the spice of life and that is no different in coffee. Enjoy the journey and explore different cultures coffees have to offer.
You may even find a blend you enjoy from a distant country, so don’t be afraid to experiment and ask for advice from baristas. Asking questions and focusing on the process of sipping is a great way to enjoy coffee in its entirety.
If you don’t like the taste of a certain type of coffee right away, try adjusting your brewing methods and experimenting with different grind sizes and temperatures. These are all variables that can affect the taste of the brew.
For those deeply unfamiliar with the brewing process, home coffee brewing tutorials are a great way to determine your own tastes and concentrate on what makes a great cup of coffee. Start with pre-ground packets of a good quality, then try grinding your own beans, and move on to more advanced brewing methods as you get more familiar with the different flavors that can be extracted from coffee.
Coffee Alternatives
If you still don’t think coffee is for you, there are plenty of alternatives such as matcha powder, herbal tea and turmeric latte. All of these have a distinct and unique flavor that can meet different health needs and dietary requirements, whilst still providing a relatively similar stimulatory effect.
Although coffee is not for everyone, understanding the different types, flavors and brewing methods could be the key to finding the right drink for you. With so many possible variations, you could soon find yourself becoming an avid coffee enthusiast and enjoying the journey of discovery.
Finally, you should take into account the potential health benefits of coffee as a whole and without doubt it can be a great addition to help fuel your day and promote good mental health.
