Coffee, a universally loved beverage, has seen countless variations and twists in different cultures. Besides sugar, milk, and various spices, some countries have taken it a step further by introducing an unexpected ingredient – cheese. Yes, you read that right – cheese with coffee! In this blog, we’ll explore the countries where this unconventional combination is not only accepted but savoured !!
1. Sweden
Sweden is the pioneer of cheese coffee. Here, a cup of coffee often comes with a side of cheese. Known as “Kaffeost,” this traditional beverage involves placing cubes of cheese at the bottom of the coffee cup. The hot coffee is then poured over the cheese, allowing it to soften without melting entirely. The result is a unique drink that blends the rich, bitter notes of coffee with the creamy, goodness of cheese. Kaffeost is traditionally made with reindeer milk, though cow’s milk is frequently used instead. It tastes neutral and has a smooth, slightly dry texture.
2. Finland:
Finland, with its strong coffee culture, has its take on pairing coffee with cheese. Instead of traditional cheese cubes, Finns often use “Leipäjuusto,” a mild cheese, to match their coffee. The cheese is placed in the coffee, adding a delightful texture and flavour contrast to the hot. Also called Juustoleipä, it translates to “cheese bread,” which indicates its dry texture.
3. Ethiopia:
In Ethiopia, where coffee originated from and has deep cultural roots, seldom you see coffee with a side of cheese. It involves serving coffee with chunks of cheese, enhancing the overall sensory experience. The aromatic Ethiopian coffee, known for its unique preparation, pairs surprisingly well with the cheese.
4. Yemen:
Yemen boasts a unique coffee tradition called “Qishr,” where coffee is brewed with ginger, cinnamon, and sometimes, dried husks of coffee cherries. In some regions, people also add a slice of mild cheese to the mix. The result is a complex and aromatic beverage that gives a burst of flavour.
5. Norway:
Norway brings its magic to the cheese and coffee duo with “Brunost.” Brunost, or brown cheese, is a caramelized goat cheese that Norwegians often add to their coffee. Whether served on the side or spread on a slice of bread, Brunost adds a sweet and savoury element to the bitter coffee experience.
6. Colombia:
In Colombia, a country known for its high-quality coffee beans, locals often enjoy “café con queso”, with a side of cheese. Coffee is not just a staple drink in Colombia but also represents the culture of the Colombians and it’s appreciated in every household. The cheese, usually a mild and slightly salty variety, complements the bold flavours of the coffee.
7. Turkey:
In Turkey, where coffee is an integral part of the culture, a unique pairing involves serving Türk Kahvesi (Turkish coffee) sometimes with a slice of cheese. The rich and intense flavour of Turkish coffee is a good match with the mild and creamy texture of cheese.
Each country brings its twist to this unexpected pairing, turning a simple cup of coffee into a harmony of flavours. From the creamy cubes in Sweden to the sweet Brunost in Norway, these combinations showcase the versatility of coffee for experimentation.