The topic of coffee certainly isn't new but is a fascinating point of any conversation. Whether you are just experiencing your first coffee or you are a coffee fanatic, there are millions different things to discuss about coffee over a cup of coffee. This blog is first of our mini blog series on coffee, our coffee product a.k.a amazing coffee powder and how coffee connects us at Connecting Grounds ApS.
Did you know that at Connecting Grounds, we have people come from three different coffee cultures? From a cappuccino or a café latte at any time of the day with a Danish colleague, or just an espresso after lunch in Italy on the way back to class to enjoy an eye-catching cup of Vietnamese iced salted whipped coffee and condense milk, coffee connects everyone at Connecting Grounds.
Danish/Nordic coffee culture
photo credit: FairBar
Hej Danes, we all know that you grow up in the culture so this is our observation and our description on the Danish coffee culture. If we miss anything, feel free to add more in the comments.
In Denmark, coffee has become more than just a warm beverage. It is an essential part of the country's cultural essence. To have a cup of warm coffee in a cozy café by yourself or with a friend sharing a pastry has became one of the "hygge" tradition. By now everyone has heard about the Danish word, "hygge", from the historic streets of Copenhagen to the charming corners of Aarhus, cafes are not just places to grab a quick cup, but social hubs where friends and families gather to share moments of warmth and connection.
photo credit: Espresso House
Danish cafes are known for their inviting atmospheres, often featuring candlelit tables, comfortable seating, and an array of delicious pastries like the iconic cinnamon roll, known as kanelsnegle. The Danish coffee scene also prides itself on sustainability and innovation, with local roasters focusing on ethically sourced beans and cutting-edge brewing techniques.
Seasonal coffee specialties that reflect the flavors of the time of year are extremely popular in Denmark. During winter, you might find spiced lattes and rich, creamy hot chocolates, while summer might bring iced coffee variations with hints of local berries or citrus. These seasonal offerings allow visitors to enjoy unique tastes that celebrate Danish ingredients and culinary creativity.
photo credit: Emmery's
The combination of coffee and small pastry whether it's a quiet morning ritual or a lively afternoon chat, coffee in Denmark is a cherished tradition that brings people together, embodying the essence of Danish hospitality and the art of living well. 'Hygge' moments are essential to understanding Danish coffee culture. These are moments of coziness and contentment, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee and a sweet treat. It could be a quiet evening at home with a book and a cup of coffee, or a gathering with friends at a café, sharing laughter and stories over delicious cakes. Embracing hygge with coffee is about finding joy in the simple pleasures of life.
Italian coffee culture
Italy, famous for its art, history, and fashion, also has a rich coffee culture that’s an essential part of daily life. In Italy, coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a cherished ritual and a key social activity.
photo credit: Tong Hong Vinh
The heart of Italian coffee culture is the espresso, a small but strong shot of coffee that’s full of flavor. Italians usually enjoy their espresso standing at a bar, quickly sipping it before starting their day. This quick coffee break is called 'un caffè' and is a vital part of the morning routine.
An important part of Italian coffee culture is when and what type of coffee to drink. In the morning, many Italians start with a cappuccino—an espresso with steamed milk and foam, often enjoyed with a pastry like a croissant. But cappuccino is only for breakfast and is rarely ordered after 11 AM. Ordering one in the afternoon might seem unusual to Italians! As the day goes on, Italians switch to espresso and its variations. For example, a macchiato, which is an espresso with a small amount of milk, is popular in the mid-morning or afternoon. For a slightly longer coffee break, a caffè lungo, which is an espresso with extra hot water, is preferred.
Italian coffee culture is also very social. Cafés, known as 'bars' in Italy, are busy places where friends meet, conversations flow, and community life happens. These bars are not just places to drink coffee but also to socialize, making them a key part of daily life in Italy.
There’s also regional diversity in coffee preferences. In the north, you might find coffee with a bit of whipped cream, while in the south, especially in Naples, espresso is known for being strong and intense, often with a thick layer of crema.
Making coffee is taken very seriously in Italy, with baristas often undergoing extensive training to perfect their skills. This dedication to quality ensures that every cup of coffee is exceptional, reflecting the Italian love for the finer things in life.
Vietnamese coffee culture
For Danes, coffee is a daily ritual that brings a touch of 'hygge' to their lives. While Denmark’s coffee culture is well-established, Vietnamese coffee offers a fresh and exciting experience with its unique flavors and traditions.
Traditional Vietnamese Coffee
Vietnamese coffee is known for its strong, bold taste, largely due to the use of robusta beans. Here are two traditional styles that might intrigue Danish coffee lovers:
Cà phê đá: This popular iced coffee is brewed using a small drip filter called a 'phin'. The strong coffee drips into a glass and is then mixed with sweetened condensed milk before being poured over ice. This combination of strong coffee and creamy sweetness offers a refreshing and flavorful alternative to Danish coffee styles.
Cà phê sữa đá: Similar to cà phê đá, this drink also features sweetened condensed milk but emphasizes its creamy richness. It’s a delightful and robust option that contrasts with the typically smoother, milk-based coffees enjoyed in Denmark.
Modern Innovations and Café Culture
In recent years, Vietnam’s coffee scene has evolved, integrating modern trends with traditional practices. Specialty coffee shops in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City now offer single-origin beans and advanced brewing methods such as pour-over and siphon, echoing global coffee trends.
Unique modern coffee drinks
Salt Caramel Coffee (Cà Phê Muối)
Salt Caramel Coffee, originated in Hue, Vietnam. This drink combines the bitterness of coffee with the sweetness of caramel and a hint of salt. The salt enhances the flavors, creating a balanced and rich taste. It’s typically made by adding a small amount of salt to the coffee grounds before brewing, then mixing in caramel syrup and condensed milk
Coconut Coffee, or Cà Phê Dừa, is a refreshing and creamy drink made by blending coconut milk with coffee. The coconut milk adds a tropical twist, making it a perfect choice for hot days. The drink is often served cold, with the coconut milk and coffee blended into a slushy consistency. It’s a popular choice at many Vietnamese coffee shops, including the famous Cộng Cà Phê.
photo credit: JOM.MAKAN.LIFE. and Cộng Cà Phê
Cộng Cà Phê is a well-known coffee chain in Vietnam, recognized for its unique ambiance and innovative coffee drinks. The chain’s decor is inspired by the Vietnam War era, with a vintage military theme. One of their signature drinks is the Coconut Coffee Smoothie, which combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the bold flavor of Vietnamese coffee. Cộng Cà Phê offers a variety of other creative beverages, such as the Saigon Salted Kumquat and traditional favorites like Cà Phê Sữa Đá (Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk). The chain has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a unique coffee experience
With our personal knowledge of coffee, we at Connecting Grounds have a special bond. As we sip our morning brew, it's easy to overlook the journey and potential of those tiny coffee grounds. From enriching our gardens to enhence flavours in our baked goods, used coffee grounds are a treasure trove of possibilities waiting to be unlocked. By integrating these simple recycling practices into our daily routines, we discover new ways to benefit from our coffee obsession and create our ever first product.
Next time you brew a pot, think twice before tossing those grounds away. Embrace the full potential of your coffee experience—savor the flavors, appreciate the process, and give back to the earth. After all, every cup of coffee holds a world of opportunity, not just for our taste buds but for our planet too.
So, let's raise our mugs to a more sustainable future, one coffee ground at a time.
Happy brewing and recycling! ☕🌱
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