The Role of Coffee in Different Cultures Around the World
If there’s one thing that can truly be called a global commodity, it’s coffee. From its humble beginnings in Ethiopia over a millennium ago, coffee followed the trade routes around the world. Each culture it was introduced to along the way created its own unique traditions, customs and rituals around the preparation and consumption of coffee.
Let’s take a look at how people around the world enjoy their coffee, showcasing how it’s more than just a drink—it’s a symbol of hospitality, conversation and community.
Coffee Lore From Around the World
Ethiopia: The Birthplace of Coffee
A centuries-old Ethiopian legend tells of a goat herder named Kaldi who, around 850 AD, noticed his goats became especially frisky after eating berries from a certain tree. He tried some for himself, eventually roasting and brewing them, and coffee was invented. Coffee is the nation’s largest export, and Ethiopians enjoy it socially with a ceremony involving a special pot called a jebena.
Italy: Espresso and Café Culture
Espresso is the coffee of choice in Italy, introduced to the country and the world in the 19th century by the invention of the espresso machine by Italian Angelo Moriondo. Citizens gather socially in the numerous coffee bars, or cafes, for conversation and entertainment, and espresso is an integral part of their everyday lives.
Turkey: The Art of Turkish Coffee
World-famous Turkish coffee is a strong brew created with an intricate brewing process using a special wide-bottomed pot, usually made of copper, called a cezve. The centuries-old practice of fortune-telling with coffee grounds, called tasseography, is a widely popular tradition.
Scandinavia: Nordic Coffee Trends
Scandinavians are among the biggest consumers of coffee in the world, and they take their coffee breaks seriously. Called fika, pauses in the day to socialize and relax over coffee and pastries are mandatory in many Swedish workplaces.
United States: Coffeehouses and the Third Wave Movement
The popularity of coffee in the U.S. followed three distinct waves, beginning in the early 20th century, when coffee became widely available in homes, restaurants and diners. The so-called Third Wave of coffee, starting in the 2000s and continuing today, saw an emphasis on the artisanal and ethical aspects of coffee production and a deeper appreciation of the nuances of coffee flavors and origins.
BostonbeaN celebrates the global role of coffee by offering our clients a wide array of light, medium and dark roast options sourced from beans from all over the world, with many blends roasted right here in New England.
Contact BostonbeaN today to learn more and to schedule a coffee machine demo for your office.
