Different types of coffees usually have different tastes and effects, made using different modes of preparation. Some are strong, while others are mild. Knowing the differences can help in choosing the best coffee, depending on one’s desires. [PS: If you are looking for another great recommendation, check out our Kauai Coffee Guide].
What Is Cuban Coffee?
Cuban coffee, also known as Cuban espresso, is one of the strongest coffee on the market. It is also very sweet, since it’s made using sugar and espresso.
Cuban Coffee Makers
Top 5 Recommended Cuban Coffees
History of Cuban Coffee
Although coffee production in Cuba started in the 1700’s, this specific Cuban coffee was first discovered when Italians went to Cuba.
It quickly became part of Cuban culture, which involves drinking coffee in social settings. After the coffee is brewed, it is placed in a large container and shared, using smaller cups.
Since then, it has gained popularity in other parts of the world, where people still follow the traditional mode of preparation when brewing it.
How To Make the Best Cuban Coffee
If you were searching for how to make Cuban coffee, you’ll be stoked: you’re in the right place. Let’s get started.
The first step in making the best Cuban coffee is collecting all the tools. These include ground coffee (which can be espresso, although others use slightly coarse grounds), a Moka Pot, and sugar.
Remove the Moka Pot’s parts, and pour water into the lower chamber. Measure the ground coffee and place in the filter.
Remember to maintain the exact measurements required for the pot. Don’t pour water that passes the safety valve, and use the correct ratio of coffee to water.
Put the top chamber back on, and turn on the heat. You’ll have to stick around to monitor the progress closely. This is because Moka Pots are a little delicate, and the coffee can easily get burnt. To avoid being idle, prepare the sugar while you wait for the coffee to be ready.
The next step is adding the sugar into the coffee. This part is a bit challenging, especially for first-time brewers, since it requires the perfect quantity. You can use regular cane sugar, but brown sugar is the best.
Add the sugar into the container, which will hold the coffee drips from the Moka Pot. This mixture is created during brewing, and if done correctly, it will create the perfect “espuma”, which is the froth that forms on this coffee.
Use the first few drips of the espresso, which are the strongest, with a little bit of sugar to get the best results.
Variations of Cuban Coffee
1. Cafe Cubano
This coffee is usually served in small cups that follow the Cuban tradition. It is very strong, and is made using regular coffee beans with a touch of sugar.
2. Cortadito
This is like a regular coffee, with the only difference being that steamed milk is added to the coffee. The ratio of milk to coffee differs with every person, and can range between equal quantities, to espresso being more than milk.
3. Colada
Like Cafe Cubano, this variation is served in a larger container, and served with smaller cups, meant for sharing in social settings. It is much like Turkish coffee, but is sweeter and not as bitter.
4. Cafe Con Leche
Unlike the others, this coffee is brewed without sugar, and is served with milk. The coffee and the milk are served separately, and the person drinking mixes them however he/she likes.
Conclusion
Cuban coffee is one of the best tasting coffees you can drink. The preparation may be challenging at first, but with practice, you’ll master perfection.
Even when you fail at first, keep trying, and you’ll be able to treat your family and friends to the best Cuban coffee.
