Over the next few days, we will be getting ready for Cinco de Mayo here at Slashfood, and I decided there is no better way to start the day than with coffee. Actually, make that Café de Olla, a Mexican-style sweetened black coffee. I first had this drink about ten years ago, and still make it periodically throughout the year. The flavor is bold and sweet, laced with the subtle flavors of cinnamon and anise. Though I have come across many different ways to prepare this beverage, the following is a simplified version I've adapted over time. If any of you have any tips on making it better, please feel free to add your comments below. The full recipe can be found after the jump.
Café de Olla
Ingredients:
1/2 cup packed, dark brown sugar *
6 cups water
4 cinnamon sticks
1/8 tsp Aniseed (optional)
1 cup dark roast coffee beans, freshly ground
*If you are using a lighter brown sugar, add a few teaspoons of molasses
Combine the first four ingredients in a large saucepan and bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Boil for an additional ten minutes, then add the coffee grounds and boil five minutes longer. Strain mixture through fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth and pour into a heat-proof container, or directly into mugs. (Traditionally, an Olla Pot is used to hold the heated beverage)
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
5-04-2007 @ 8:40AM
bdw said...
There is nothing that goes better with the heat of spicy food than bitter coffee; and the sweetness draws the fire.
It's an adult taste. I like ouzo instead of the aniseed.
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