As the summer months approach, many of us turn to our favorite refreshing beverages to help us beat the heat. For coffee lovers, iced coffee is a staple of the season. But have you ever wondered what iced coffee is called in different parts of the world? From the classic “iced coffee” to more exotic names like “café glacé” and “espresso con ghiaccio,” the terminology surrounding iced coffee is as varied as the flavors and brewing methods themselves.
A Brief History of Iced Coffee
Before we dive into the many names of iced coffee, let’s take a brief look at its history. Iced coffee has been around for centuries, with its origins dating back to 17th-century Europe. During this time, coffee was a rare and expensive commodity, and serving it over ice was a way to make it last longer. The first recorded instance of iced coffee was in 1660s England, where it was served as a refreshing drink for the wealthy.
However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that iced coffee became popular in the United States. The first iced coffee drink, called “café frappé,” was served at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, Missouri. This drink was made with coffee, ice, and milk, and was an instant hit with fairgoers.
Regional Names for Iced Coffee
So, what is iced coffee called in different parts of the world? Let’s take a look at some regional names for iced coffee:
Europe
In Europe, iced coffee is known by many different names. In France, it’s called “café glacé,” which literally means “iced coffee.” In Italy, it’s known as “espresso con ghiaccio,” or “espresso with ice.” In Spain, it’s called “café con hielo,” or “coffee with ice.”
France: Café Glacé
In France, café glacé is a popular summer drink made with strong coffee, ice, and milk. It’s often served in a tall glass with a spoon and a sugar cube on the side. The French take their coffee very seriously, and café glacé is no exception. It’s made with high-quality coffee beans and is often served in cafes and bistros throughout the country.
Italy: Espresso con Ghiaccio
In Italy, espresso con ghiaccio is a staple of summer. It’s made with a shot of espresso, ice, and a splash of milk. Italians take their espresso very seriously, and serving it over ice is a way to enjoy it during the hot summer months. Espresso con ghiaccio is often served in bars and cafes throughout Italy.
Asia
In Asia, iced coffee is known by many different names. In Japan, it’s called “ajisai,” which literally means “hydrangea.” In Thailand, it’s known as “oliang,” which is a strong and sweet coffee drink made with coffee, ice, and milk.
Japan: Ajisai
In Japan, ajisai is a popular summer drink made with coffee, ice, and milk. It’s often served in a tall glass with a spoon and a sugar cube on the side. The Japanese take their coffee very seriously, and ajisai is no exception. It’s made with high-quality coffee beans and is often served in cafes and restaurants throughout the country.
Thailand: Oliang
In Thailand, oliang is a staple of summer. It’s made with strong coffee, ice, and milk, and is often served in street stalls and markets throughout the country. Oliang is a sweet and creamy coffee drink that is popular with locals and tourists alike.
Types of Iced Coffee
In addition to regional names for iced coffee, there are also many different types of iced coffee drinks. Some popular types of iced coffee include:
- Cold brew: a type of iced coffee that is made by steeping coarse-ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period of time.
- Iced latte: a type of iced coffee that is made with espresso, milk, and ice.
Cold Brew
Cold brew is a type of iced coffee that is made by steeping coarse-ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period of time. This process produces a smooth and low-acidity coffee drink that is perfect for hot summer days. Cold brew is often served over ice with milk and sugar, and is a popular choice for coffee lovers who want a low-maintenance coffee drink.
How to Make Cold Brew
Making cold brew is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some patience. Here’s a basic recipe for cold brew:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 cup coarse-ground coffee beans | Combine coffee beans and water in a large glass or plastic container. |
| 4 cups cold water | Steep for 12-24 hours in the refrigerator. |
| Milk and sugar (optional) | Strain and serve over ice with milk and sugar, if desired. |
Iced Latte
An iced latte is a type of iced coffee that is made with espresso, milk, and ice. It’s a popular choice for coffee lovers who want a creamy and indulgent coffee drink. Iced lattes are often served in cafes and coffee shops, and can be made at home with an espresso machine and a blender.
How to Make an Iced Latte
Making an iced latte is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic equipment. Here’s a basic recipe for an iced latte:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 shot espresso | Pull a shot of espresso into a cup. |
| 3-4 oz milk | Pour milk into a blender and blend until frothy. |
| Ice | Combine espresso and milk in a glass filled with ice. |
Conclusion
Iced coffee is a delicious and refreshing beverage that is enjoyed by people all over the world. From the classic “iced coffee” to more exotic names like “café glacé” and “espresso con ghiaccio,” the terminology surrounding iced coffee is as varied as the flavors and brewing methods themselves. Whether you prefer cold brew, iced latte, or another type of iced coffee, there’s a drink out there for everyone. So next time you’re looking for a cool and refreshing pick-me-up, consider trying a new type of iced coffee. Your taste buds will thank you!
What is Iced Coffee?
Iced coffee is a type of coffee drink that is served chilled, typically over ice. It can be made by brewing hot coffee and then chilling it, or by using cold brew methods that involve steeping coarse-ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period of time. Iced coffee can be enjoyed on its own or with various flavorings and sweeteners.
Iced coffee has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly during the warmer months when a hot cup of coffee may not be as appealing. It’s a refreshing and invigorating way to enjoy the flavor of coffee, and its versatility has led to the creation of many different variations and names.
What is the Difference Between Iced Coffee and Cold Brew?
Iced coffee and cold brew are two distinct methods of preparing coffee drinks. Iced coffee is made by brewing hot coffee and then chilling it, whereas cold brew is made by steeping coarse-ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period of time, usually 12-24 hours. This difference in brewing method results in distinct flavor profiles, with iced coffee often having a brighter, more acidic taste and cold brew having a smoother, sweeter taste.
The difference in brewing method also affects the caffeine content of the two drinks. Cold brew typically has a higher caffeine content than iced coffee, since the longer steeping time allows more caffeine to be extracted from the coffee beans. However, the caffeine content can vary depending on the specific brewing method and ratio of coffee to water.
What is Japanese Iced Coffee?
Japanese iced coffee, also known as “flash brew,” is a method of making iced coffee that involves slowly pouring hot coffee over ice. This method allows the coffee to be brewed and chilled simultaneously, resulting in a smooth and balanced flavor. Japanese iced coffee is often made with a pour-over or Chemex coffee maker, and the slow pouring process helps to prevent the coffee from becoming watered down.
Japanese iced coffee has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique brewing method and flavor profile. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavor of hot coffee, but with the refreshing twist of being served over ice. The slow pouring process also allows for a high degree of control over the brewing process, making it a popular method among coffee aficionados.
What is Vietnamese Iced Coffee?
Vietnamese iced coffee, also known as “ca phe sua da,” is a type of iced coffee that originated in Vietnam. It’s made by brewing strong coffee in a small metal filter called a phin, and then serving it over ice with sweetened condensed milk. The sweetened condensed milk adds a rich and creamy texture to the coffee, and helps to balance out the bitterness of the coffee.
Vietnamese iced coffee is a popular drink in Vietnam and has gained popularity worldwide due to its unique flavor profile and cultural significance. The use of sweetened condensed milk is a distinctive feature of Vietnamese iced coffee, and it’s often served as a refreshing pick-me-up in the hot Vietnamese climate.
What is Iced Americano?
Iced Americano is a type of iced coffee that is made by adding cold water to a shot of espresso, and then serving it over ice. This method helps to dilute the espresso and create a milder flavor, making it a popular choice for those who find straight espresso too strong. Iced Americano can be served on its own or with various flavorings and sweeteners.
Iced Americano is a great way to enjoy the flavor of espresso, but with the refreshing twist of being served over ice. The addition of cold water helps to bring out the nuances of the espresso, and the ice helps to chill the drink without watering it down. Iced Americano is a popular drink in many coffee shops and cafes, and is often served as a refreshing pick-me-up during the warmer months.
What is Iced Latte?
Iced latte is a type of iced coffee that is made by combining espresso and steamed milk, and then serving it over ice. This method helps to create a creamy and rich texture, and the milk helps to balance out the bitterness of the espresso. Iced latte can be served on its own or with various flavorings and sweeteners.
Iced latte is a popular drink in many coffee shops and cafes, and is often served as a refreshing pick-me-up during the warmer months. The combination of espresso and steamed milk creates a smooth and creamy texture, and the ice helps to chill the drink without watering it down. Iced latte is a great way to enjoy the flavor of espresso, but with the added bonus of a creamy and rich texture.
What is Coffee Granita?
Coffee granita is a type of iced coffee that originated in Italy. It’s made by freezing sweetened coffee in a shallow metal pan, and then scraping it with a spoon to create a slushy texture. Coffee granita is often served as a refreshing dessert or snack, and is typically flavored with sugar and other ingredients such as vanilla or citrus.
Coffee granita is a unique and refreshing way to enjoy the flavor of coffee, and its slushy texture makes it a popular choice during the warmer months. The freezing process helps to concentrate the flavor of the coffee, and the scraping process helps to create a smooth and even texture. Coffee granita is a great way to enjoy the flavor of coffee, but with the added bonus of a fun and refreshing texture.