Coffee Evolution: A Historical Journey Through Coffee Trends
Coffee, one of the world’s most loved beverages, is famous as a morning pick-up and the reason to hang out after work. To many, coffee is the magic word to get a date, or it’s likely the drink across the table when discussing business. But, have you ever wondered about its journey ending in your cup? The aroma alone calls for everyone’s attention at home or work, and resisting it is almost impossible, thanks to the wonders of coffee machine suppliers in Manchester.
The History of Coffee – Birthplace
Coffee has come a long way from centuries ago. An Ethiopian herder named Kaldi stumbled upon the power of some unique beans in the 9th century in a coffee forest through his goats. He realized his goats were energized after feeding on a specific tree. The tree happened to be coffee beans in the Ethiopian plateau.
Kaldi reported to his local convent about the findings. The abbot’s experience was that the famous berries kept them up longer when praying. He shared the observations with other monks, and berries continued to gain fame. Word spread to the east, reaching the Arabian Peninsula, and the journey spread worldwide.
Coffee Crossed the Red Sea to the Arabian Peninsula
In the 15th century, coffee was cultivated in the Arabian peninsula, known as Yemen today. A century later, coffee was grown in Egypt, Persia, Syria, and Turkey. Its trade boomed in the port city of Mocha, gaining more popularity in the Middle East.
The spread of coffee news led to the sprouting of qahveh khaneh, or coffee houses. These coffee houses were in Constantinople, Mecca, and Medina. Qahveh khaneh were meeting spots where people discussed politics and news over coffee.
Many activities were going down in these social gatherings, like playing chess. The pilgrimage to Mecca helped spread the word about the wine of Araby to the world.
Arrival of Coffee in Europe
Coffee’s arrival in Europe in the 17th century was not highly welcome. It was labeled as the devil’s bitter invention. The skepticism by some people didn’t derail the spread of coffee news. But, tables turned with the backing of Pope Clement VIII. The Pope’s approval alleviated these concerns. The beverage was accepted in main European cities.
Like in the Middle East, coffee also fueled social gatherings in England and France. Coffee quickly replaced the morning beverage of those days, beer and wine. People who took coffee in the morning instead of beer remained alert and energized. Their productivity also increased.
In London, coffee houses were over 300 in the 17th century. The growth attracted more business-minded individuals like merchants and shippers. More businesses were born from these coffee houses. The news got to the Dutch, who started coffee cultivation within their colonies. It began in the East Indies, Java, which gave rise to “Java,” another name for coffee. A century later, coffee was introduced to the French territory of the Caribbean.
Coffee in America
Britons introduced coffee to New Amsterdam in the mid-1600s, then to New York, by Britons. New coffee houses appeared, but tea was favored over coffee until 1773. Colonists rebelled against a heavy tax on tea imposed by King George III. The rebellion, the Boston Tea Party, and Americans prioritized coffee over tea.
The Invention of Coffee Espresso
In 1901, an Italian, Luigi Bezzera, invented an espresso machine. It used steam to force hot water through ground coffee. In seconds, the result is a dense shot of coffee. The innovation of an espresso machine ushered in the contemporary café culture. It also modified the consumption of coffee across the world.
The Modern Coffee Culture
The discovery of coffee in Ethiopia and its spread worldwide has been exceptional. Coffee unites its lovers all over the world. There are different cultures fired by creativity and innovation. Here are various trends of the coffee culture.
Exceptional Quality
The modern coffee culture emphasizes unique quality and flavor by coffee enthusiasts. Coffee choices are distinct: single-origin beans, small batches roasted. These coffee varieties make the experience great for its lovers.
Dedicated Coffee Shops and Latte Art
There are establishments with baristas and different ways to brew coffee. Coffee connoisseurs offer knowledge of other brewing methods and flavor profiles. Modern coffee houses use latte art creation to showcase creativity and craftsmanship. Latte art turns your usual cup of coffee into an aesthetic and incredible-tasting gem. A cup of latte coffee will captivate your eyes and taste buds.
Technology Influence
Technology has transformed coffee consumption. Diverse household coffee preparation methods and equipment shift the experience to your home. Join a coffee enthusiasts’ group on social media to exchange ideas and share new trends.
The Bottom Line
Coffee was discovered in Ethiopia in the 9th century by a herder. Coffee cultivation then spread through the world. The sensational global beverage is prepared in diverse ways. It was widespread and more accessible with instant cans in stores in the 19th century. Today, coffee is the favorite beverage for many, and specialty shops are on the rise.
About the Author
Twigs cafe staff is comprised of editors, writers, food & drink experts, nutritionists, and researchers to create informative and helpful content for health-conscious people.
