Coffee is more than just a beverage; it’s a global experience. Across cultures, coffee takes on unique forms and rituals that reflect local flavors and traditions. Take Italy, for instance. Here, coffee is a quick affair—espresso shots enjoyed standing at a bar. It’s about efficiency and bold flavors, with Italians often pairing their coffee with a simple pastry in the morning.
In Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, the experience is deeply ceremonial. A traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony involves roasting green coffee beans, grinding them by hand, and brewing the coffee in a jebena, a clay pot. It’s a communal ritual, with the rich aroma of freshly roasted beans filling the air as families and friends gather to share stories and three rounds of coffee.
Vietnam offers a completely different take. Known for its sweetened condensed milk coffee (ca phe sua da), this creamy, iced delight is a balance of strong coffee and sugary richness. Served in tall glasses over ice, it’s the perfect way to beat the tropical heat. Exploring these traditions not only expands your palate but also deepens your appreciation for how coffee connects people around the world.
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