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When craving caffeine on a hot day, a steaming cup of coffee isn’t the first drink that comes to mind. An iced coffee might be more in line with what you need, cooling you down while giving you a boost at the same time.
“Iced Coffee has grown in popularity over the past few years, especially among the younger market. This is thought to haveoccurred as they have grown up consuming cold, fizzy drinks and are now looking for an introduction into coffee that is still within their comfort zone,” informs Matthew Dees, senior brand manager of Jacobs. “Although this spike in popularity has only been a recent development, what many don’t realise is that this iced version of coffee has been enjoyed since the 17th century and could be found on the menus of many cafes. Also, over the centuries, many countries have tried to make this ‘new’ coffee experience their own by introducing unique variations.”
In line with its growing popularity, Jacobs has made iced coffee available to enjoy in the comfort of your home, giving you a taste of what you have been craving without having to go out to a coffee house. Jacobs’ Iced Coffee sachets are easy to use and can be made on the go to enjoy on a hot day. Available in various flavours such as original and salted caramel, Jacob’s Iced Coffee is a cool down treat on a sultry day or a quick fix on a busy morning.
The introduction of iced coffee
Although there are two different versions of how iced coffee came to be, the end result is still seeing this drink being ordered in café around the world.
According to one version, due to a massive surplus of coffee beans left behind after the Turkish army left Vienna in the 17thcentury, citizens began experimenting with different ways to brew and enjoy their coffee. Following this experimentation, iced coffee was discovered.
The second version takes us to Algeria during the Battle of Mazagran between the French and the Arab and Berber forces. Due to the heat and the lack of milk, the French army added water to their coffee, and waited for it to cool before drinking. When the soldiers returned to Paris, they convinced the café owners to add this new drink to their menus and it was soon known as Café Mazagran. Since then, iced coffee has been enjoyed the world over.
“Since the exact origin of iced coffee cannot be pinpointed, it is safe to say that over the decades this unusual drink has gone on a journey of its own, with different versions cropping up and being enjoyed by those wanting a ‘colder’ cup of coffee,” explains Dees.
Different variations of an up-and-coming favourite
Since the introduction of iced coffee, it has taken on various versions, with different countries around the world adding their own spin:
- The Catalonians and the Portuguese add a slice of lime to their iced coffee.
- In the middle East a version similar to a Frappuccino, a sugary milkshake-esque option, is enjoyed.
- In Japan the coffee is brewed directly onto the ice, cooling it down instantly while still keeping the brew’s acidity and fruity, floral tastes.
- In Brazil iced coffee is made with lots of chocolate and cola, giving it double the caffeine.
“No matter how you enjoy your iced coffee – with some chocolate, lime or in the sachet version – there is something for everyone, and due to these exciting variations, the iced coffee offering, and enjoyment will continue to grow,” states Dees.