Aroma of Awakening: Unveiling the Magic of Indian Filter Coffee
Forget the favourite lattes and the high-calorie Frappuccinos. India's mornings find their aromatic way into our lives, already, with a ritual steaming cup of filter coffee. Being second in the top-rated Taste Atlas "World's Best Coffees" list, it's beyond a mere drink; it's an experience that forms the social fabric we all cherish as Indians. Now, filter coffee is not just about the energizing caffeine kick, rather the unique process involves making the brew from scratch, a rich history and a taste that will linger after your last sip. Well, avoid the readymade coffee packets and start enjoying a sensory trip to the land of the origin of this dearly loved Indian brew.
A Legacy Steeped in Tradition:
The legend of Indian filter coffee dates back to hundreds of years wherein its roots are referred to the colonial period. In the 18th century, the British planters showed up in India and proliferated the cultivation of coffee, particularly in the southern part of it. On the other hand, the classic filtration brewing process, known as the "decantation method," is an invention exclusive to India. Therefore, such a slow and mindful process demands careful pouring of the hot water over the finely ground coffee that is kept in the special stainless steel filter that is placed at the top of the other chamber. With the resulting beverage of great intensity, strong and concentrated, blended with hot milk and a generous amount of sugar we get the very same "Filter kaapi" that everyone loves.
Beyond the Brewing Method:
Indian filter coffee has a flavour that is not only based on the brewing technique but also comes from the type of blend and roasting style. Typically, a mix of both Arabica and Chicory beans is used, where Arabica brings a full-bodied, balanced taste and Chicory is the one that makes the cup bittersweet. The beans undergo a dark roasting process, thus increasing the coffee's aroma and the body. This particular blend and the slower brewing, bring out a coffee that is intense but creamy too, with a slight caramel sweetness and not a trace of the earthiness of the chicory.
A Sensory Symphony:
The first sip of Indian filter coffee is like a world of flavours and textures coming up all at once. The scent of coffee which is strong wakes up the senses, and then, a rich, heady taste takes over the mouth last. By blending the coffee with milk and sugar, a creamy silky texture and a little sweetness that pairs well with the coffee's bitter taste is created. The story is not over yet. Traditional filter coffee so often served up small stainless steel tumblers themed 'dabaras' adding to the full sensory joy. The metal does a good job of conducting heat, keeping your coffee warm for longer, while the small size incites slow sipping, making the complex tastes of each mouthful open up every time you take a sip.
A Cultural Cornerstone:
The Indian filter coffee is not only a simple beverage but is a symbol of our culture. From the happening cafes in the cities to the quiet street-side food stalls in small towns, there is a common aroma of filter coffee, making it a part of every Indian's life. Socializing becomes so much easier as it bridges people during different events like coffee talks, business meetings and catching up with friends and relatives over a cup of warm coffee. Regardless of whether it is an early morning wake-up or relaxing your mind from the afternoon heat, filter coffee is an indispensable part of the lifestyle in India.
Beyond Borders:
The Indian filter coffee consumed by many people has exceeded the limits of India's borders. Now the interest in specialty coffee is growing coming from all over the globe and millions of Indian diaspora worship this unique brew. Coffee stalls concentrating on filter coffee are coming up on the charts of big cities around the globe, offering international coffee aficionados a bit of India to taste.
Brewing Your Cup of Magic:
Are you ready for an immersion into authentic Indian filter coffee? Although the classic way of brewing entails a specific setup of a filter, there exist ways of not only emulating the taste of filter coffee but also of making it at home using simply the available resources. On the web or any Indian grocery shop, you can get any freshly ground filter coffee blends. A French press could be a great alternative to the classic filter. This is as easy as putting hot water into the coffee grounds in the press, steeping for some minutes and then pressing down the plunger to separate coffee from the grounds. Make sugar and hot milk to suit your taste and sip your cup of filter coffee!
So, the next occasion you hanker for a coffee cup, try the world of Indian filter coffee instead of the regular. This drink, with its historic legacy, special brewing method, and unmatchable taste, is sure to arouse your senses and take you to the middle of the Indian culture every sip at a time.
©️ Images: Photo by Deepal Tamang on Unsplash