Best Coffee Recipes from the Caribbean

The Caribbean region isn’t only about pristine beaches and a mix of cultures. The islands are very well renowned for their stunning landscapes indeed, but also for their rich culinary heritage, including their exquisite coffee recipes.

Have a sensory journey through the tropical paradise, where each sip tells a story of tradition, flavour, and warmth. These excellent pick-me-up coffees or a treat to savour under the palm trees promise to awaken your senses and transport you to the idyllic shores of the Caribbean.

Most Famous Coffee Recipes

The Caribbean is a region where coffee is an essential drink. Each island has its distinctive type, making it great for tourists to try all of them out. Remember that our store, Caribbean Trading, also has some of the best Puerto Rican coffee for you to try. Check some of the most famous ones in this list:

Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee

Known as the Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee, this renowned worldwide drink has an exceptional quality and unique flavour profile.

This variation is grown in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica, located on the island’s eastern side. The combination of high altitude, rich soil, cool climate, and ample rainfall in this region creates optimal conditions for coffee cultivation. Here’s a simple recipe to brew it:

Ingredients:

• Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee beans
• Fresh, filtered water

Instructions:

1. Grind the coffee beans using a burr grinder to grind your Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee beans just before brewing. Aim for a medium-coarse grind, similar to the consistency of coarse sand.
2. Heat filtered water to about 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C). This temperature range is ideal for extracting the best flavours from the coffee without burning it.
3. Pre-wet the filter. If you’re using a drip coffee maker or a pour-over setup, pre-wet the filter with hot water to remove any papery taste and ensure even extraction.
4. Measure the correct amount of coffee you want. The recommended use is 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 ounces of water. Adjust according to your taste preferences and the desired coffee strength.
5. Place the ground coffee into your coffee maker or pour-over device. Slowly pour the hot water over the grounds in a circular motion, evenly saturate them. Depending on your brewing method, allow the coffee to drip through the filter or steep for the appropriate time.
6. Once the coffee has finished brewing, pour it into your favourite mug or cup. This type of coffee is often enjoyed black to fully appreciate its unique flavour profile, but feel free to add milk or sugar if desired.
7. Always remember to also store the remaining coffee properly. If you have any leftover brewed coffee, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave when ready to enjoy it again.

Remember that the quality of the water, the grind size, and the brewing method all play significant roles in the final taste of your preparation. Experiment with different variables to find the perfect brew for your preferences.

Cuban Cafecito (Cuban Espresso)

Cuban cafecito (little coffee), also known as Cuban espresso, is a solid and sweet drink that’s an integral part of Cuban culture. To prepare it, you just have to follow a very straightforward recipe with common ingredients:

Ingredients:

• One tablespoon of finely ground Cuban coffee
• 1-2 teaspoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• Water
• Espresso maker or stovetop espresso maker (moka pot)
• Demitasse cups or small espresso cups
• Espresso cups or shot glasses

Instructions:

1. Start by filling the bottom chamber of your espresso maker with water up to the fill line. Make sure not to exceed the safety valve.
2. Place the filter basket into the bottom chamber and fill it with finely ground Cuban coffee. Use a spoon to level it off, but do not tamp it down as you would for traditional espresso. Screw the top and bottom chambers of the espresso maker together securely. Then, stove over medium heat.
3. As the water heats up, it will pass through the coffee grounds and brew into the top chamber of the espresso maker. You’ll hear a gurgling sound, indicating the brewing process is complete. This usually takes a few minutes.
4. While the coffee is brewing, add 1-2 teaspoons of granulated sugar to a small bowl or cup. Adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
5. Once the coffee is ready, remove the espresso maker from the heat source and carefully pour the brewed coffee into the bowl or cup with the sugar. Stir vigorously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
6. Pour the sweetened coffee, known as “espumita” or “espuma,” into demitasse cups or small espresso cups. This creamy foam that forms on top of the coffee due to the sugar being whipped with the first drops of coffee is a classic and adds a great touch to the drink.

Cuban cafecito is typically served in small portions, as it’s pretty intense. It’s often enjoyed in the morning or after meals as a pick-me-up or a digestif. Feel free to adjust the sweetness and strength of the coffee to your taste preferences.

Puerto Rican Café con Leche (Coffee with Milk)

Coffee with milk is a trendy coffee drink in Puerto Rico, known for its rich and creamy flavour. It typically consists of strong coffee (often made with espresso or dark roast coffee beans) mixed with hot milk and sweetened to taste with sugar.

The ratio of coffee to milk can vary depending on personal preference, but it is generally equal to coffee and milk. The drink is often enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up, and it’s a beloved part of Puerto Rican culinary culture.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of strong brewed coffee (preferably Puerto Rican coffee)
• 1 cup of milk (whole milk or evaporated milk for richer flavour)
• 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brew a cup of strong coffee using your preferred method. Puerto Rican coffee is often rich and bold, so aim for a potent brew.
2. Heat the milk over medium heat in a small saucepan until it starts to steam. Be careful not to let it boil.
3. Once the milk is steaming, whisk in the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon (if using), and vanilla extract (if using). Continue to whisk until the sugar has dissolved completely.
4. Pour the hot brewed coffee into a large mug. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the mug with the coffee, stirring gently to combine. Taste the Café con Leche and adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more sugar if desired. After that, serve and enjoy.

You can also adjust the ratios of coffee to milk according to your taste preferences. Some prefer a more robust coffee flavour, while others enjoy a creamier texture with more milk. Experiment with different variations until you find the perfect balance for you.

Haitian Café au Rhum (Coffee with Rum)

Also known as Haitian coffee with rum, it’s a delightful and spirited beverage that combines the rich flavours of coffee with the warmth of rum. It’s a popular drink enjoyed in Haiti and served as a pick-me-up or social beverage during gatherings. This is how to do it simply:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of strong-brewed Haitian coffee
• 1-2 ounces of dark rum
• 1-2 teaspoons of granulated sugar (optional)
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brew a cup of Haitian solid coffee using your preferred method. You can use a French press, espresso machine, or drip coffee maker. Ensure the coffee is robust and full-bodied to stand up to the rum.
2. Warm your mug while the coffee is brewing by rinsing it with hot water. Once the coffee is ready, pour it into your pre-warmed mug.
3. Add 1-2 ounces of dark rum to the coffee, depending on your preference for strength and flavour. Adjust the amount of rum to suit your taste.
4. If desired, sweeten your Café au Rhum by adding 1-2 teaspoons of granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
5. Optionally, top your Café au Rhum with a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent touch. You can also sprinkle some ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavour and visual appeal.
6. After all, simply serve your Haitian Café au Rhum hot and enjoy the delightful combination of coffee and rum flavours.

Remember to be cautious when consuming alcoholic beverages, and always drink responsibly. Adjust the amount of rum according to your tolerance and preferences.

Conclusion

The Caribbean’s rich and diverse coffee recipes offer a compelling journey for coffee enthusiasts, showcasing the region’s unique flavours, cultural influences, and rich history.

Whether savouring the bold intensity of Cuban espresso, indulging in the creamy decadence of Jamaican coffee cocktails, or enjoying the nuanced sweetness of Puerto Rican coffee, each sip transports one to the sun-kissed shores and vibrant streets of the Caribbean.

Embracing these recipes celebrates the artistry of coffee-making and honours the traditions and heritage deeply rooted in the islands. Each variant is a path to discover these irresistible delights that embody the tropics’ essence.