Coffee Archives - BostonbeaN Coffee

Nitro Cold Brew Is All the Rage — Here’s Why We Think You’ll Love it!

You might think everything that could possibly be done to enhance the flavor and texture of coffee has already been done, but you’d be wrong. There’s a new trend in coffee enjoyment that’s taking the nation by storm, and its name is Nitro Cold Brew.

Using a process cooked up by culinary alchemists in Portland, Oregon, and Austin, Texas, a few years ago, this unique coffee experience is sweeping through coffee shops, cafes and offices across the country, gaining converts and becoming a favorite among coffee enthusiasts everywhere. So what is Nitro Cold Brew and what makes it so special? Read on to find out.

What Is Nitro Cold Brew?

As the name implies, this coffee is made with a cold brewing process that involves steeping the grounds in cold water for up to 24 hours, then infusing the coffee with nitrogen gas. This removes the flavor-compound-destroying oxygen from the coffee, preserving the full flavor of the beans, while giving the brew a creamy, velvety texture with a full head of foam, much like a dark stout beer. It also tends to pack a stronger caffeine punch because the lengthy steeping of the grounds produces a more concentrated product.

A Distinct Flavor & Texture

The flavor profile of Nitro Cold Brew is enhanced by all the compounds that are lost in the traditional brewing process, producing a coffee that is slightly sweeter and less acidic, with hints of chocolate and vanilla, and a rich thick, creamy mouthfeel that some people describe as something like a milkshake. Kind of like a dark draft craft beer. Since it’s a cold beverage, Nitro Cold Brew is appealing as a refreshing, summer-friendly coffee option.

Serving & Presentation

Nitro Cold Brew is usually prepared and then stored in a keg that has been pressurized with nitrogen gas and fitted with a tap, again much like a draft dark beer. That’s why, to get the full effect and enjoyment out of the experience, it should be served in a glass to showcase the cascading appearance and full, foamy head.

Skyrocketing Popularity

Nitro Cold Brew is fast becoming a standard menu item, with major coffee chains like Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Tim Hortons already jumping on the bandwagon. It is also becoming a favorite perk for employees, with offices everywhere adding kegerators and regular keg deliveries to their workplaces. Many varieties are now available, including nitro-infused lattes, cappuccinos, teas and flavored coffees.

Now that you’ve learned about Nitro Cold Brew, why not give it a try? BostonbeaN provides a variety of cold brews and teas. Pair them with our Kegerator and our Sail Away Nitro Cold Brew CounterTap to treat your employees to delicious Nitro Cold Brews.

Simply contact BostonbeaN today to get Nitro Cold Brew in your workplace.

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.

The Surprising Health Benefits of Coffee

It’s indisputable that America is a coffee-loving nation. A recent survey showed that three-quarters of Americans drink coffee every day. Most survey respondents cited the energy-boosting properties of caffeine as the primary reason they drank coffee, as well as the pleasant aroma and flavor. And although caffeine sometimes gets a bad rap healthwise, 48% thought that drinking coffee and tea was good for their health.

So why do so many people think that coffee is healthy while the other prominent caffeinated drink, soda, is bad for you? It’s because coffee is chock full of natural nutrients and compounds that research has shown to have a variety of beneficial health effects. Soda, on the other hand, is just water, flavoring, sugar and preservatives.

Read on to learn about the many positive health benefits of coffee.

The Healthy Side Of Coffee

Antioxidants

The anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties of antioxidants like polyphenols and diterpenes are well documented, and coffee is a rich source of them. They can help protect against chronic diseases like neurodegenerative disorders, cancer and diabetes.

Improved Glucose Metabolism

Chlorogenic acid and several other compounds found in significant amounts in coffee are believed to improve glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, helping to reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Liver Protection

Several studies have found that drinking three to four cups of coffee daily regulates liver enzyme levels and can lower the risk of fatty liver disease, liver cancer and cirrhosis. This is true for both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee.

Neuroprotective Effects

Caffeine, antioxidants and other compounds found in coffee can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress on brain tissues, boosting cognitive functions like attention span, alertness and memory, and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Enhanced Longevity

Moderate coffee consumption, defined as three to five cups daily, has been linked to a reduced risk from some of the leading causes of premature death, including coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure, stroke, kidney disease and diabetes.

Better Hydration

Keeping your body properly hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your health, and drinking coffee in moderation is just as hydrating as water. But more than five cups per day can have a diuretic effect causing you to lose hydration.

Boosts Energy and Mood

Caffeine is a natural stimulant that enhances alertness and reduces fatigue, and it also increases the neurotransmitters that improve mood.

Contact BostonbeaN today to learn how to keep your office team healthy and productive with our coffee, tea and pantry services.

The Allure of Coffee and the Fascinating Reasons We Can’t Get Enough

Why do we love coffee so much? Such worldwide devotion to a simple beverage goes way beyond just being a morning eye-opener. Both coffee and tea have been consumed in all cultures for centuries. But coffee has a special allure all its own, from its rich aroma and complex flavors to the psychological role it plays in our daily lives, both private and social. Let’s take a look at the fascinating reasons why people can’t get enough of this beloved brew.

The Allure and Mystique of Coffee

The Ritual

Even in these days of automatic drip coffee makers and Keurig machines, there are still several actions involved in making a good cup of coffee. It’s part of the daily routine, helping make life feel more predictable and secure. Many have returned to old-fashioned percolators, Moka pots and French presses for an even more involved and ritualistic process, somehow making the coffee taste even better.

The Flavor Exploration

Like grapes from a vineyard, coffee beans take on unique characteristics from the regions where they are grown. Different roasting processes also change the flavor and texture, producing a wide variety of coffees, each possessing its own unique and subtle flavor profile. From the bright and fruity notes of a light roast to the deep, chocolaty undertones of a dark roast, coffee offers a never-ending journey of flavor exploration.

The Social Connection

Coffee has always been a centerpiece of social interaction and connection. From the cafés of Vienna to the smoky klatches of the Middle East, friends catching up over a mug of mocha latte, or coworkers gossiping on their coffee break, coffee is a natural catalyst for human bonding and communication. It’s warmth and aroma just naturally promote friendliness and goodwill.

The Creative Fuel

Coffee has long been an essential ingredient in the creative process for writers, artists and other creative types. The caffeine in coffee has the ability to sharpen and clear the mind, enhancing focus and concentration, and unleashing a torrent of energy, ideas and inspiration.

The Cultural Significance

Societies the world over have woven coffee and its preparation into their cultures, reflecting their own unique traditions and beliefs. Each country has its own daily coffee habits, sometimes changing with current fashions and trends, as aficionados of the recent cold-brew craze can attest. Coffee has become an enduring part of our lives.

Contact BostonbeaN Coffee Company for more fascinating lore about coffee or to order our custom coffee, tea and pantry services for your Boston-area workplace.

Unmasking the Brew: Debunking Common Coffee Myths

You may think you know your coffee, but can you discern fact from fiction? Coffee has been around for such a long time and has become such an integral part of everyday life that many myths abound. Let’s take a look at a few of the most common misconceptions about coffee, from its supposed detrimental health effects to the caffeine content of gourmet vs regular coffee. Prepare to have your illusions shattered as we uncover the truth behind the beans.

5 Popular Coffee Myths Debunked

1. Decaf Coffee Is Caffeine-Free

Well, not exactly. The standard for labeling coffee as decaffeinated is that 97% of the caffeine has to be removed, so that leaves 1-3%, or about 7 mg of caffeine in an 8-ounce cup. Not a lot, but enough to notice if you’re sensitive to it.

2. Coffee Helps You Sober Up

This is one myth that can have deadly consequences. Caffeine will make you more alert, but it doesn’t do anything to alter the alcohol content in your bloodstream, and even though you might feel more awake, you’re still impaired. The same is true for a cold shower. Time is the only way to get sober.

3. Coffee Stunts Your Growth

How many of us heard this when we were kids? Truth is, science has found no evidence that coffee can affect growth. This myth has been traced back to a 1920s ad campaign that went viral. However, kids have less tolerance to caffeine than adults, and consuming it could cause anxiety, irritability, and sleep problems, so it’s probably best for them to abstain.

4. Coffee Dehydrates You

This one probably got started because coffee gives many people the urge to go to the bathroom. Actually, whether you’re drinking coffee or tea, your beverage is almost entirely made up of water, so it contributes to healthy daily hydration, bathroom trips aside.

5. Espresso Has More Caffeine vs. Drip Coffee

Espresso is made from the same beans as regular coffee, it’s just more concentrated. So you’re getting the same amount of caffeine in a small shot as you would a bigger cup, it’s just a matter of volume. Now if you drank a mug of espresso, you’d be getting a lot more.

Contact BostonbeaN Coffee Company for more fun facts about coffee or to order our custom coffee, tea, and pantry services for your Boston area workplace.

Here’s the 411 on Single-Origin Coffee

The flavor and aroma of coffee is affected by the climate and the soil in the country where the beans are grown. More coffee roasters are choosing to offer single-origin coffee to enjoy at home and in the break room. At BostonbeaN Coffee Company, we provide the coffee and machines to bring this option to your employees.

Single-origin coffee

Single-origin coffee is not as simple as the name implies. It is a blanket term that can be very specific, or very general. In the most general terms, it means that the coffee comes from one country or a coffee-producing area and is not blended. But it can also mean one farm or cooperative and be much more specific.

All regions of every country do not have the same conditions for growing coffee. Soil and altitude also play an important role. They produce a distinctive taste in the coffee beans. The more specific the definition of single-origin, the more consistent you can expect the product to be.

Single-Origin Coffee-Growing Areas

Ethiopia
Ethiopian coffee beans are usually grown in the shade. They produce Arabica beans, which are an important part of their culture. Depending on where the beans are grown, they have citrus and floral notes or nuances of dark chocolate with strawberries.
Brazil
Brazilian coffee beans are often used to create espresso due to their low acidity and dark roast. They are not as fruity as other beans and taste more of chocolate, caramel, spice, and nuts. Brazil is a large country. Differences in single-origin depend on region.
Honduras
Produced in the highlands, these dark beans are low in acid and smooth in taste. Look for notes of lemon, walnuts and chocolate, and a smooth cup of java.

Single-Origin vs. Blended Coffee

With single-origin coffee, you can pinpoint where your coffee is produced. It may be seasonal, more expensive and harder to get, but you know exactly where it comes from. Blended coffee is a more consistent product, and there is an art to delicious blended coffee.

Enjoying a satisfying cup of coffee is not only dependent upon the origin of the bean. Water temperature, brewing method and grind size all factor in, creating differences in flavor between espresso or pressed coffee and cold brew.

Bring the excitement of single-origin coffee to your break room. Give BostonbeaN Coffee Company a call to discuss your needs today.

How Does an Espresso Machine Perform Its Magic?

Gathering in the break room gives your employees a way to unwind and spend time with coworkers while sipping a cup of coffee or tea. Why not consider adding a machine that turns your coffee break into something unique?

Drinking espresso is more than just sipping coffee; it is an adventure. Americans are excited about this European staple that combines depth of color and flavor to take coffee to a whole new level. Your employees deserve the best and BostonbeaN can provide it.

Espresso

An espresso is not just a drink, it is a process of brewing coffee. Finely ground, darkly roasted coffee beans and high pressure water create a super-charged shot. The sensory experience is enjoyed by your smell, your taste, the feeling in your mouth and even the sound of the machine. An unforgettable sensation.

Cappuccino and Latte

You can’t talk about espresso and not discuss a cappuccino and a latte. Espresso gives them the depth of flavor. A cappuccino is an espresso with steamed milk and foam in thirds, and a latte is a shot of espresso with two parts of steamed milk and a little foam.

Bringing delights to your break room is as simple as providing your employees with one of these Nespresso machines:

Momento 100

Momento 100 provides the latest technology in its machine that is easy to operate and maintain. Designed for businesses, it has everything your employees want. Hot water and five coffee recipes are offered: Ristretto, Espresso, Lungo, Americano and Large Americano. With a simple touch of the screen, the magic begins.

Momento 200

Momento 200 provides everything that the 100 offers times two. Two employees can make a coffee drink simultaneously. Cut down the wait time and let the break time begin.

Momento Zenius

Momento Zenius provides what the 100 and 200 models offer in a smaller version for a staff under 30. Three drinks are offered: Ristretto, Espresso and Lungo.

Let us provide the coffee drinks that make your break room a place where your employees want to recharge. Call BostonbeaN Coffee Company today to hear about the many brewing and coffee options we provide.

Sip Forward: Exploring the Exciting 2024 Coffee Trends and Leaving the Past “Brew-hind”

The winds of change are blowing through break rooms across the country as 2024 promises a whole new world of coffee trends. At BostonbeaN Coffee Company, we pride ourselves on being on the cutting edge of coffee culture, and we’ll make sure your break room coffee is as exciting as a new year deserves.

Specialty Coffees

“Unique” and “single origin” are words used to describe the specialty coffee of 2024. Coffee from a single destination such as Ethiopia or Guatemala is gaining traction. Coffee lovers are looking for distinctive flavor and want to have an experience with every cup.

Alternative Brewing Methods

Many break rooms are adding innovative brewing methods to their beverage choices. By adding advanced coffee brewing machines and finding ways to extract more flavor from coffee favorites, you can make coffee unique and upscale. Whether you prefer a steaming cup of coffee or cold brew in a box, 2024 is shaping up to be a great year for coffee lovers the world over.

Plant-Based Milk Alternatives

For vegans and those who prefer a plant alternative to traditional coffee creamers and milk, the market will be expanding in 2024 to offer more alternatives to just almond and oat milk. One of the newest is pistachio milk, and expect to see lots of other flavored options as well.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

As more and more people become eco-friendly, the coffee industry is following suit. You can expect to see more coffee coming from small producers who offer living wages and don’t use pesticides. Producing the least amount of waste is also a major consideration.

Innovative Flavors and Ingredients

The addition of delicious and innovative flavor to coffee continues to be a strong option. Growing in popularity are the strong contenders of salted caramel, gingerbread and maple. Among the most innovative flavors are spices like turmeric added to cinnamon, ginger, cardamom or nutmeg — heart healthy and heart-warming.

Technology Integration

It isn’t just about the coffee you offer your employees. It’s about the technology the coffee brewer offers as well as innovation. Fresh, sustainable beans as well as machines with options score high in 2024.

Check out the options we offer at BostonbeaN Coffee Company to bring all the latest 2024 coffee trends to your employees.

Move Over Pumpkin Spice — Peppermint Is Coming in Hot!

National Peppermint Latte Day is Dec. 3! The chill in the air means the holidays are right around the corner, and there’s no better way to get into the spirit of the season than by enjoying a perfect combination of coffee and candy cane flavors.

What’s a Latte?

Want to create a fantastic peppermint latte? It’s key to know how to get started. The base of any latte is one or two espresso shots, followed by the addition of steamed milk and a bit of foam. Lattes are super-customizable, making them the perfect way to get the espresso that you want — blended with the flavor that you love.

Peppermint Perfection

People have loved peppermint for ages — and for good reason! Ancient Egyptian history shows the use of peppermint for medicinal purposes dating back as far as 1550 B.C. Ancient Greeks used peppermint to cure hiccups, and modern medicine continues to use the herb to treat indigestion, colds, toothaches, sore throats and more.

Peppermint With a Twist

If you’ve got an in-office espresso machine, you’re on the right track to creating the perfect midday peppermint latte. Whether you’re looking for the eco-friendly Nespresso Momento 100 or the 13-setting Nespresso Gemini, the team at BostonbeaN is here to help you find the right Nespresso solution for your business.

After you add steamed milk to your espresso, consider adding one (or more!) of the following options to add the taste of the holidays to your latte:

Whipped cream
White, milk or dark chocolate
Peppermint extract or peppermint candies
Whipped cream topped with crushed peppermint candies or chocolates
Chocolate syrup

Don’t forget to set up peppermint latte stirring sticks (candy canes) next to the espresso machine.

BostonbeanN Coffee: Everything You Need for the Perfect Cup of Joe

At BostonbeaN Coffee Company, we’re passionate about what we do. Whether you’re looking for the perfect espresso shots for the office or you want to give your employees a daily pick-me-up with fresh food, packaged snacks, and other hot and cold beverages, we’ve got you covered! Reach out to us today to learn more.

Savoring the Last Sips of Summer: Unique Coffee Creations for a Smooth Transition

As the invigorating autumn air starts to envelop Boston, it’s time to celebrate with some unique coffee creations. BostonbeaN offers a wide range of flavored coffee selections that can help you and your friends savor the last moments of summer while awaiting the fall season.

1. Spiced Iced Coffee

Imagine sipping on a refreshing iced coffee that carries a hint of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Cold beverages like this are the epitome of a seasonal bridge, combining the coolness of summer with the warmth of fall. To make this, brew a pot of BostonbeaN’s Cinnamon Hazelnut coffee and let it cool. Add ice and a sprinkle of nutmeg to finish.

2. Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew

Take your regular cold brew up a notch by infusing it with a touch of pumpkin spice. Combine course grounds of BostonbeaN’s Pumpkin Spice coffee with water, then let it steep overnight, or for around 12 hours. Strain and store in the fridge for a refreshing yet seasonally appropriate drink that’s perfect for the gap between seasons.

3. Chocolate Raspberry Mocha

If you’re not quite ready to let go of summer, try a Chocolate Raspberry Mocha with POUR’D by Marco. Use BostonbeaN’s Chocolate Raspberry coffee as the base, add some steamed milk, and top it off with whipped cream and a drizzle of raspberry syrup.

4. Blueberry Vanilla Fusion

For those who love to brew specialty drinks in the office, BostonbeaN’s Native Blueberry and French Vanilla can be combined to create a Blueberry Vanilla Fusion. This coffee drink captures the essence of summer with its blueberry notes while introducing the comforting aroma of vanilla, a staple in many fall desserts.

5. Creme Brulee Hazelnut Latte

If you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent, try a Creme Brulee Hazelnut Latte. Combine BostonbeaN’s Creme Brulee and Hazelnut coffees, add steamed milk, and finish with a caramel drizzle. This luxurious drink will make you feel like you’re savoring the best of both seasons.

6. Vanilla Fudge Swirl Cold Foam

Try a Vanilla Fudge Swirl Cold Foam made with BostonbeaN’s Vanilla Fudge Swirl coffee. Top it with cold foam and a generous sprinkling of cocoa powder for a drink that’s both refreshing and comforting.

BostonbeaN’s flavored coffee selections are the perfect way to enjoy the waning days of summer while eagerly anticipating the cozy vibes of fall. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity, spicy or indulgent, there’s a coffee creation that will tickle your taste buds and make this seasonal shift a delightful experience. Cheers to savoring the last sips of summer and welcoming the beauty of autumn — through coffee, of course! Contact BostonbeaN for all your coffee and break room needs today.