What is Café de Olla?

Café de Olla, also known as Mexican spiced coffee, is a traditional Mexican coffee brewed in a clay pot called “olla.” This unique coffee preparation method dates back to the colonial era, originating from the communities in Veracruz, Oaxaca, and Chiapas regions of Mexico. The Olla is a traditional mexican earthenware pot that enhances the flavor and aroma of the coffee, giving it a distinctive taste that is deeply cherished in Mexican culture.This mexican beverage is made by combining ground coffee beans with ingredients such as cinnamon sticks and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar). The blend is simmered in the clay pot over a low flame, allowing the flavors to fuse together and the natural sweetness of the ingredients to infuse the beverage. The result is a rich, aromatic, and slightly sweet coffee with warm undertones of cinnamon.At first sip, this coffee drink offers an explosion of flavors that is both familiar and exotic, making it a truly delightful experience for coffee lovers. Whether enjoyed hot or poured over ice, this unique Mexican beverage is a perfect choice for those wanting to explore new and exciting tastes in their coffee journey.  

What does Cafe de olla mean? 

In Spanish, “café” means coffee, while “olla” refers to a clay pot used for cooking. This unique coffee gets its name from the traditional method of preparation. The coffee is brewed in a clay pot, which gives it a distinct flavor and aroma. Café de olla is often enjoyed with traditional Mexican pastries or bread and is a favorite among coffee enthusiasts looking to experience something unique and authentic. 

What does café de olla taste like?  

Cafe de olla, this traditional Mexican drink is known for its unique flavor. It is typically brewed in a clay pot, which gives it a distinct taste. The coffee is made by simmering water with cinnamon sticks, piloncillo and sometimes orange peel. Yiou can use also clove and star anise. This combination of ingredients creates a rich and aromatic drink. Café de la olla has a deep, earthy flavor with hints of sweetness and spice from the cinnamon and piloncillo. The cinnamon adds warmth and complexity to the taste, while the piloncillo gives it a subtle caramelized sweetness. The orange peel adds a touch of citrusy brightness to the overall profile. The result is a comforting and flavorful coffee that is enjoyed by many. This beverage is often served hot and is a popular choice for breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Nutrition in traditional mexican coffee

Despite its delicious flavors, this coffee is not known for being a particularly nutritious beverage. It is generally high in calories due to the addition of sweeteners and may not provide significant amounts of essential nutrients. However, coffee itself does contain some beneficial compounds. It is a good source of antioxidants which can help protect against inflammation and may have certain health benefits. Additionally, caffeine in coffee can provide a temporary energy boost and improve mental focus. It’s important to note that the nutritional content of this coffee can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. For those looking to enjoy Café de olla while keeping their nutrition in mind, opting for smaller serving sizes and reducing the amount of added sweeteners can be helpful. 

Ingredients and supplies for Cafe de olla, the mexican spiced coffee

This delicious Mexican coffee that is made with unique ingredients and requires specific supplies. To prepare this aromatic beverage, you will need ground Mexican coffee beans, preferably dark roast coffee for a rich flavor. Additionally, one of the key ingredients is piloncillo, that adds a distinctive sweetness to the coffee. If you can’t get it, you can use dark brown sugar. You will also need mexican cinnamon, as they complement the flavors and offer a warm and comforting taste. One optional ingredient that sets it apart is the addition of cloves. Cloves, which are dried flower buds of the evergreen tree, bring a strong and distinct taste to the beverage. Another optional ingredient that sets Cafe de olla apart is star anise. This spice not only adds a distinct aroma to the coffee, but also lends a delicate licorice-like flavor. Other supplies necessary for this coffee drink include an Olla de barro, or clay pot, as it helps to infuse the coffee with its earthy aroma, and a wooden spoon for stirring the ingredients.  

Café de olla recipe – how to make traditional mexican coffee with cinnamon

Café de olla, or pot coffee, is a traditional Mexican drink that is rich and flavorful.

Step 1

To make traditional Café de olla, this delicious beverage, start by boiling water in olla de barro, but if you don’t have one, you can use any medium pot or saucepan instead.

Step 2

Add in piloncillo, and stir until dissolved.

Step 3

Next, add in cinnamon sticks, star anise and cloves. Also add the coffee grounds. Let this mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4

Once ready, strain the coffee into individual cups and serve. You can enjoy café de olla plain or add a splash of milk or cream for a creamier taste. This aromatic coffee is a perfect way to start your day or as an afternoon pick-me-up. The combination of the caramel-like sweetness from the piloncillo and the warm spice from the cinnamon, cloves and star anise makes café de olla a truly unique and delicious drink. Serve it in a mexican mug. Try making this recipe at home to experience the authentic flavors of Mexico. You can try it also with ice, so it will be an aromatic iced coffee. 

Tips and tricks for Café de olla, the mexican coffee recipe

If you’re looking to make this coffee at home, here are a few tips and tricks to help you perfect your coffee recipe.

First and foremost, make sure you use good quality coffee beans. Look for beans that are freshly roasted and have a rich and strong flavor.

Next, the secret ingredient that sets this delicious coffee apart is the piloncillo, a type of unrefined whole cane sugar. Make sure to use this instead of regular sugar for an authentic taste. 

Another important tip is to use spices like cinnamon and cloves to infuse the coffee with their flavors.

You can also add a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the taste.

When brewing the coffee, it is best to use a clay or earthenware pot, as this will give it the traditional Mexican touch.

Finally, don’t forget to serve it with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick for added fragrance. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to enjoy a perfect cup of authentic mexican beverage in the comfort of your own home.