Cuban coffee, also known as cafecito or Cuban espresso, is a cornerstone of Cuban culture and cuisine. Renowned for its robust flavour and intense sweetness, Cuban coffee holds a special place in the hearts of coffee lovers around the world. In this article, we explore the origins, variations and preparation of this iconic beverage.
What is Cuban coffee?
Cuban coffee is a strong and sweet espresso-based coffee that originated in Cuba. It is typically made from finely ground, dark-roasted coffee beans that are brewed under high pressure to produce a concentrated shot known as a cafecito. Cuban coffee is distinguished by its unique preparation method, which often includes the addition of demerara sugar during brewing to create a sweet, caramelised flavour.
What makes Cuban coffee different?
There are several factors that make Cuban coffee different from other coffees around the world:
Sweetness: The use of demerara sugar directly in the coffee grounds before brewing gives Cuban coffee its characteristic sweetness. This caramelised sugar adds depth and complexity to the flavour profile, making Cuban coffee a uniquely sweet and indulgent drink.
Intensity: Cuban coffee is known for its intense, bold flavour. The concentrated shot of coffee
produced by the espresso machine packs a punch, offering a robust and invigorating experience that invigorates the senses.
Cultural tradition: Beyond its flavour, Cuban coffee embodies a rich cultural tradition deeply rooted in Cuban history. It serves as a symbol of hospitality, social interaction and national identity, making it much more than a beverage – it is a cultural ritual cherished by Cubans and coffee lovers worldwide.
Preparation technique: The preparation of Cuban coffee, including the use of an espresso machine and the addition of demerara sugar, distinguishes it from other styles of coffee. The careful balance of ingredients and technique creates a coffee that is both potent and pleasing to the palate.
History of Cuban coffee
Cuban coffee has a rich and colourful history, dating back to the 18th century when coffee cultivation began in Cuba. The country’s ideal climate and fertile soil proved perfect for growing coffee beans, and by the 19th century Cuba had become a major coffee producer and exporter. Cuban coffee gained popularity not only for its quality, but also for the unique way it was prepared.
In the early 20th century, Italian immigrants brought espresso brewing techniques to Cuba, which greatly influenced the style of Cuban coffee. The introduction of espresso machines led to the creation of the iconic cafecito, or Cuban espresso – a strong, concentrated shot of coffee made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans under high pressure. This method produced a rich and intense coffee that quickly became a staple of Cuban culture.
In the mid-20th century, Cuban coffee faced challenges due to political and economic factors, including the US embargo and changes in the Cuban government. Despite these difficulties, Cuban coffee remained deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of the country and continued to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Today, Cuban coffee remains a symbol of Cuban identity and tradition. It represents the resilience and ingenuity of the Cuban people and continues to be celebrated as a beloved beverage around the world.
Cuban Coffee Variations
Cuban coffee offers several variations to suit different tastes:
1. Cafecito (Cuban Espresso): A small, strong shot of espresso sweetened with demerara sugar.
2. Café Cubano: Similar to a cafecito, but served in a larger cup with extra sugar to give it a sweeter and more intense flavour.
3. Café con Leche: Cuban coffee combined with steamed milk, resulting in a creamy and slightly sweet drink.
4. Colada: A larger portion of cafecito meant for sharing, served in a communal cup with small thimble-like cups for sipping.
How to make Cuban coffee
Making authentic Cuban coffee requires a few essential steps:
1. Prepare the coffee: Use finely ground, dark-roasted coffee beans, preferably from Cuba or Latin America.
2. Brewing the coffee: Use an espresso machine to brew a concentrated shot of coffee.
3. Sweeten the coffee: Add demerara sugar to the coffee grounds before brewing for a sweet, caramelised flavour.
4. Serve and enjoy: Pour the cafecito into small cups and enjoy the intense flavour and sweetness of Cuban coffee.
How to make Cuban coffee without an espresso machine
If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can still enjoy Cuban coffee using a moka pot or a stovetop espresso machine. Follow these steps:
1. Prepare the coffee: Use finely ground, dark-roasted coffee beans suitable for espresso.
2. Brewing the coffee: Brew the coffee in a moka jug for a strong and concentrated coffee.
3. Sweeten the coffee: Add demerara sugar to the coffee grounds before brewing to sweeten.
4. Serve and enjoy: Pour the brewed coffee into small cups and enjoy the bold flavour of homemade Cuban coffee.
How to drink Cuban coffee
Drinking Cuban coffee is not just about enjoying a delicious beverage – it is about experiencing a piece of Cuban culture and tradition. Here’s how to enjoy Cuban coffee like a local:
Start with a small cup: Cuban coffee is typically served in small espresso cups called tacitas. These cups hold a small amount of coffee, allowing you to savour the concentrated flavour.
Sip slowly: Cuban coffee is strong and potent, so take small sips to fully appreciate the bold flavour and aroma.
Enjoy the sweetness: Traditional Cuban coffee is often sweetened with demerara sugar, which is added to the grounds before brewing. This creates a delicious caramelised flavour that complements the intense coffee.
Pair with a snack: In Cuba, cafecito is often enjoyed with a small snack such as a pastry or piece of toast. The combination of sweet coffee and a savoury snack is a perfect way to start the day or enjoy an afternoon break.
Share with friends: Cuban coffee is a social experience to be shared with friends and family. In Cuba, it’s common to order a colada – a large cafecito meant to be shared with a group of people.
Cuban coffee at Cortadito Coffee House
At Cortadito Coffee House, we take pride in serving authentic Cuban coffee made with the finest ingredients and traditional techniques. Our cafecitos and café con leche offer a taste of Cuba in every sip. Visit us at our Lincoln Road or Washington Ave locations in the heart of Miami Beach, stop by our Coral Gables spot on Miracle Mile, or visit our new store in Brickell for a taste of authentic Cuban cuisine.
More than just a beverage, Cuban coffee embodies a centuries-old tradition of passion and craftsmanship. From its humble origins on Cuban plantations to its modern popularity, Cuban coffee continues to captivate coffee lovers with its intense flavour and cultural significance.