How to Make Mexican Café de Olla
September 6, 2024
Café de Olla originated in Mexico, particularly in rural areas, and is traditionally brewed in clay pots (olla). It became popular during the Mexican Revolution when it was brewed for soldiers to provide warmth and energy. The use of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and piloncillo makes it distinct from other coffee preparations around the world, reflecting Mexican cultural influences and culinary traditions.
Flavor Profile:
Sweet and Aromatic: The piloncillo or brown sugar adds a deep, rich sweetness with a caramel-like flavor.
Spicy Warmth: The cinnamon and cloves introduce a warm, slightly spicy kick, while the star anise contributes a subtle licorice note that complements the boldness of the dark roast coffee.
Smooth and Bold: The dark roast coffee gives the drink a full-bodied richness with a slightly smoky and bitter edge, balanced by the sweetness of the sugar and the complexity of the spices.
Café de Olla is a comforting and aromatic drink, making it perfect for colder weather or as an after-dinner treat. Its blend of sweetness, spice, and bold coffee flavor gives it a distinct and memorable profile, reminiscent of traditional Mexican culture.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients:
Piloncillo (or Brown Sugar): A natural sweetener derived from sugar cane juice, piloncillo is less processed than refined sugar and contains trace minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. It also gives the coffee a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve heart health.
Cloves: Known for their antimicrobial properties, cloves contain antioxidants and may aid in digestion while providing a warming, spicy flavor.
Star Anise: Star anise is rich in antioxidants and has been used traditionally to aid digestion, reduce bloating, and improve overall gut health.
Dark Roast Coffee: Coffee itself is a great source of antioxidants, particularly chlorogenic acid, which can have anti-inflammatory effects and support heart health. It also provides a natural energy boost.
Café de Olla (Traditional Mexican Coffee)
Ingredients:
6 cups water
1 (8 oz.) piloncillo or brown sugar, to taste
2 cinnamon sticks (preferably Mexican)
4 whole cloves
1 star anise
6 tablespoons ground dark roast coffee (not instant)
Instructions:
Boil the Water:
In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
Add Sweetener and Spices:
Add the piloncillo or brown sugar to the boiling water and stir until dissolved.
Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Stir to combine the flavors.
Add the Coffee:
Stir in the ground coffee, ensuring everything is well mixed.
Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil again and then remove from heat.
Steep and Strain:
Cover the pot and allow the coffee to steep for 5 minutes.
Strain the mixture into cups, removing the spices and coffee grounds.
Serve:
Pour the coffee into cups and enjoy warm.
Nutritional Breakdown per Cup (approximate):
Calories: 90 kcal
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Protein: 0 g
Fat: 0 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugars: 21 g
Sodium: 3 mg