Specialty coffee is not just a morning drink, but a unique experience for coffee lovers, as it relies on carefully selected beans and precise preparation methods that enhance the natural flavors and aromas of coffee. With the advent of the month of Ramadan, many people wonder about the effect of specialty coffee on fasting, and how they can enjoy it without negatively affecting energy levels or hydration during the long hours of fasting. The effect of specialty coffee on the body during fasting varies depending on several factors, such as the percentage of caffeine, acidity, and preparation method. Coffee may provide energy and activity after breakfast, but it may also lead to dehydration or sleep disturbances if consumed at the wrong time. Therefore, it is important to know the best time to drink specialty coffee during Ramadan, and how to benefit from it without affecting the body's balance during fasting. In this article, we will review how specialty coffee affects fasting, and what is the ideal time to drink it during Ramadan to ensure an enjoyable coffee experience without any side effects.
What is specialty coffee?
Specialty Coffee is a high-quality coffee that is grown under ideal conditions, harvested and prepared with the utmost care to preserve its unique natural flavor. Specialty coffee is evaluated according to specific criteria by the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCA), and must score 80 or more out of 100 on quality tests to be classified as “specialty.”
What makes specialty coffee special?
- Precision farming: grown in specific areas with ideal climatic conditions, such as Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
- Bean Quality: We use high-quality Arabica beans, which have a rich flavour and less bitterness than Robusta beans.
- Careful Roasting: They are carefully roasted to bring out the natural flavours without masking them with intense bitterness.
- Special Brewing Methods: They are brewed using precise methods such as V60, Chemex, French Press, and manual espresso, enhancing the unique flavor of each type of bean.
Specialty Coffee Flavors
The flavour of specialty coffee varies depending on the region in which it was grown, and may contain flavours of fruits, nuts, chocolate, or flowers, making each cup a unique experience for coffee lovers.
Why do coffee lovers prefer it?
Because it provides a distinctive coffee experience with a pure and unconventional taste, far from artificial flavours or over-roasting that may hide the natural properties of coffee.
Specialty coffee types
Specialty coffee is distinguished by its variety of preparation methods, which allows coffee lovers to explore different flavors according to the brewing method used. The following are the most prominent types of specialty coffee:
1. Filter Coffee
It is a coffee that is prepared by slowly passing hot water through ground coffee using special filter tools, which produces a clean and pure drink that clearly reflects the natural flavors of the coffee.
- V60: Uses a conical filter, giving the coffee a balanced flavour and clear acidity.
- Chemex: Relies on a thick paper filter, which makes the coffee smoother and less oily.
- Kalita Wave: Features flat drainage holes that give the coffee a balance of sweetness and acidity.
2. Immersion Coffee
These methods depend on soaking ground coffee in hot water for a specific period before filtering, which produces a more dense and flavourful coffee.
- French Press: Prepared by steeping the coffee and then filtering it through a metal press, giving it a richer texture and a stronger flavour.
- AeroPress: Combines steeping and pressing, creating a smooth, concentrated coffee with a balanced flavor.
3. Espresso and its derivatives
Specialty coffee also includes espresso-based drinks, which are prepared by forcing hot water under high pressure through ground coffee, producing a concentrated, flavorful beverage.
- Espresso: The base of most other drinks, it has a thick consistency and contains natural crema.
- Ristretto: A more concentrated shot of espresso, using less water, giving it a stronger, less bitter flavour.
- Lungo: Unlike ristretto, it uses more water, making the flavour a little lighter.
4. Cold Coffee
A great choice for those who prefer a refreshing coffee, it is prepared in special ways to reduce acidity and bring out the natural flavours.
- Cold Brew: Ground coffee is steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours, giving it a smooth, low-acidity taste.
- Iced Coffee: Prepared in a similar way to hot coffee, it is then poured over ice, which preserves its flavour and texture.
5. Specialty coffee with natural flavors
Some specialty coffees have natural flavors that reflect the environment in which they were grown, such as:
- Fruity Coffee: Has a berry or citrus-like taste.
- Chocolatey Coffee: Contains natural notes of cocoa and nuts.
- Floral Coffee: It has a floral aroma and a light, refreshing flavour.
Benefits of specialty coffee in Ramadan
Specialty coffee is not just a drink, it is a unique experience characterized by the quality of the beans and the precise preparation method that highlights the natural flavors of the coffee. During Ramadan, specialty coffee can be a great choice when consumed at the right time, as it provides many benefits that support the fasting person without causing any unwanted side effects.
1. Improve energy level and concentration
After long hours of fasting, the body may feel lethargic, and here comes specialty coffee to enhance mental and physical activity thanks to its natural caffeine content, which helps improve focus and attention, especially when consumed after breakfast or well before suhoor.
2. Support digestion
Specialty coffee, when consumed after breakfast, helps stimulate the digestive system and promote bowel movement, which reduces problems with indigestion or feeling full after eating a heavy meal.
3. Improve mood and reduce stress
Having a cup of specialty coffee after breakfast can be a great way to relax and improve your mood, as coffee stimulates the production of dopamine, the hormone responsible for feelings of happiness.
4. Rich source of antioxidants
Specialty coffee contains a high percentage of antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radicals and enhance heart and immune system health, which is important during the month of Ramadan to maintain vitality and health.
5. Stay hydrated when choosing cold brew coffee.
Cold brew or specialty coffee is a great option for those who are fasting, as it has less acidity and better hydration compared to hot coffee, making it suitable for avoiding dehydration during fasting hours.
Best time to drink specialty coffee in Ramadan
- 1-2 hours after breakfast: to give the body a chance to digest the food before consuming caffeine.
- After Tarawih: To get a dose of activity without affecting sleep.
- Sufficient time before Suhoor: For those who need an energy boost at the beginning of the fasting day, while making sure to drink enough water.
If consumed at the right time, specialty coffee can be a great addition to your Ramadan routine without compromising on hydration or sleep quality. So, choose the type of coffee that suits you and enjoy an exceptional taste experience during the holy month.
Enjoy the finest specialty coffee with the luxury of coffee.
At Coffee Luxury , we offer you a unique experience with the finest specialty coffees carefully selected from the finest farms around the world. Whether you prefer pure flavored drip coffee, rich, concentrated espresso, or refreshing cold brew, we have something to suit your taste. Experience your own pleasure with specialty coffee and discover the difference in every sip. Order now through our online store and enjoy exceptional quality delivered to your doorstep.