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Walking into a trendy café and seeing cheese coffee on the menu might sound surprising at first, but it’s a growing trend that's making waves around the world. This unusual combination, known as Kaffeost, originates from Scandinavia and has captured the curiosity of coffee enthusiasts globally. For Indians, who cherish their chai and filter coffee, the concept of adding cheese to coffee may seem peculiar. However, exploring this trend reveals a fascinating blend of cultures and flavours. Let’s explore why this drink is gaining popularity across the globe.
The Origins of Kaffeost Coffee
Kaffeost, which translates to "coffee cheese" in Swedish, has its roots in the Nordic regions, particularly in Finland and Sweden. It is traditionally enjoyed by the Sami people, an indigenous group in northern Scandinavia. The drink features a unique type of cheese called Leipäjuusto, or "bread cheese," which is made from cow’s milk, goat’s milk, or reindeer milk.
Leipäjuusto has a firm texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavour. It’s often described as having a bread-like consistency, which explains its name. The cheese is usually cut into small cubes and placed at the bottom of a wooden cup called a kuksa, over which hot coffee is poured. The cheese softens slightly but doesn’t melt, creating a distinctive coffee experience that’s both savoury and sweet.
Image credit: Instagram/@steinbjorn
How Does Kaffeost Coffee Taste?
The taste of Kaffeost coffee is a wonderful surprise for many first-time drinkers. The coffee itself retains its familiar robust and aromatic qualities, while the cheese adds a subtle creaminess and mild sweetness. As the hot coffee is poured over the cheese, it absorbs some of the coffee's heat and flavour, becoming soft and chewy without melting completely. This unique combination results in a multi-layered taste experience:
Savoury and Sweet: The cheese introduces a savoury element that balances the bitterness of the coffee, with a hint of sweetness that complements the drink beautifully.
Creamy Texture: The cheese adds a creamy texture to the coffee, making each sip smooth and rich.
Chewy Bits: As you drink, you’ll encounter soft, chewy bits of cheese, offering a delightful contrast to the liquid coffee.
Overall, Kaffeost coffee is a unique mix of flavours and textures, making it a memorable and enjoyable drink.
How to Make Kaffeost Coffee
Making Kaffeost coffee at home is simple, though you’ll need to find the right type of cheese. While authentic Leipäjuusto may not be readily available in India, you can substitute with a similar firm, mild cheese.
Ingredients:
1 cup of hot, freshly brewed coffee
1-2 slices or cubes of firm, mild cheese (Leipäjuusto if available, or a suitable substitute like paneer or halloumi)
Method:
Cut the cheese into small cubes or slices. If using paneer, lightly grill or toast it to enhance its flavour and texture. Brew a cup of strong coffee using your preferred method, whether it's a French press, espresso machine, or drip coffee maker. Place the cheese cubes at the bottom of a cup or mug. Pour the hot coffee over the cheese cubes, allowing them to soak in the heat and flavour of the coffee. Let the cheese sit in the coffee for a few moments to soften slightly. Sip the coffee and enjoy the unique combination of flavours and textures. Use a spoon to enjoy the softened, chewy cheese bits.
