Today, specialty coffee beans and blends are increasingly available. No longer a product exclusive to novelty shops, gourmet beans can be found at large grocers and online shops.
With so much variety at consumer’s fingertips, now is the perfect time to learn which coffees pair best with which foods. Sure, there are classic coffee pairings such as orange, chocolate, and pastry; but keep reading to delve into more options, based on coffee type.
#1. Acidic Coffees
Acidic, robust coffees are the perfect accompaniment to sweets and baked goods. Consider caramels, chocolates, trail mixes, cookies, doughnuts, and cakes.
Because these foods are high in fats and sugars, they are capable of balancing out the acidity of such strong coffees. The options here are endless, but it would be a good idea to start with a Brazilian or Ethiopian coffee to start.
Consider using a french press like the Bodum Brazil for a delicate brew.
#2. Natural Coffees
Generally, natural coffees are brewed using light filters, leaving a light, earthy flavor to enjoy. Natural coffees pair well with raw and natural foods. Think of oats, nuts, fresh fruits, and dried fruits.
Whole wheat toast, covered in avocado and coarsely ground sea salt, would be a wonderful pairing. Kenyan and Haitian coffees complement berries.
Tanzanian and Haitian coffees complement stonefruits such as peaches, plums, and apricots.
#3. Black Coffee
Black coffee is the most versatile type of coffee to pair with foods. When in doubt, it is a good choice. Savory, sweet, and salty, any bold flavors all do well against it.
There are countless types of black coffee to chose from on the market. Go for something rich, dark, and chocolatey for maximum impact. Brazilian, Ethiopian, and Guatemalan are great dark roast options.
#4. Milky Coffee
Although adding milk or cream is often a specialty coffee faux pas, many coffee lovers adore the added lushness they provide. Adding milk or froth softens a coffee’s flavor, so these cups pair well with foods that are lighter in flavor.
Delicate pastries, such as croissants, are a good choice. Foods with light culinary notes, such as white chocolate and mascarpone, are other options. Lighter coffees, such as Colombian and Arabica, also match these lighter, delicate foods nicely.
The Options Are Endless
When it comes to classic drinks like coffee, the flavor combinations are manifold. View coffee like an ingredient onto itself when designing balanced, flavorful meals.
