How to Match Coffee with Food 

Shutterstock

Whether it’s black coffee and doughnuts or a cappuccino and a croissant, food and coffee is a match made in heaven. But, when coffee is so associated with snacks and sugary treats, what else does a quality brew pair with? 

Pairing specialty coffee with the right food can elevate your tasting experience to new heights, and is something every coffee lover needs to try. In this guide, we’ll explore the art of coffee pairing and help you unlock the perfect flavor combinations to tantalize your taste buds. 

Understanding Specialty Coffee 

Specialty coffee isn’t just your average cup of joe. It’s a type of coffee that is often of a much higher standard than supermarket offerings, is sourced from exceptional beans and roasted to perfection to bring out unique flavors and characteristics. Each specialty coffee boasts its own distinct profile, making it an ideal companion for various culinary delights and getting the perfect coffee every time. 

The Basics of Coffee Pairing 

When it comes to pairing specialty coffee with food, there are a few key principles to keep in mind: 

1. Complement or Contrast: You can either complement the flavors of the coffee with similar notes in the food, or you can contrast them to create an intriguing flavour interplay. Experiment with each to discover new and unique combinations. 

2. Intensity Match: Consider the intensity of both the coffee and the dish. Lighter coffees pair well with delicate flavours, while bold coffees can stand up to richer, more robust dishes. 

3. Texture Matters: Pay attention to the texture of both the coffee and the food. Creamy desserts might call for a smooth, velvety coffee, while crisp pastries might pair better with a lighter-bodied brew. 

Pairing Suggestions 

The best coffee and food pairings often depend on personal taste preferences, but here are some classic and popular combinations that always work well together: 

1. Light Roast Coffee 

Light roast coffee pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, and light salads. The bright acidity and delicate flavors of light roast coffee complement the freshness of these foods. 

2. Medium Roast Coffee 

Medium roast coffee is an ideal match for nutty desserts (like biscotti), chocolate-based pastries, caramelized fruits, or creamy cheeses. The balanced profile of medium roast coffee enhances the richness of these treats without overpowering them. 

3. Dark Roast Coffee 

For dark roast, we recommend deep flavors such as dark chocolate, roasted nuts, caramel desserts, grilled meats, or hearty breakfast dishes. The bold and robust flavours of dark roast coffee can stand up to the intensity of these foods, creating a complementary pairing experience. 

4. Espresso 

Espresso is the most intense style of coffee and works wonderfully with rich desserts (such as tiramisu), or sugary biscuits like biscotti. The intense flavour and concentrated nature of espresso is beautifully complemented by the sweet contrast of confectionery. 

5. Cold Brew Coffee 

Cold brew is a much more refreshing style of coffee that goes hand in hand with fresh berries, citrus-infused dishes, light salads, seafood, or grilled vegetables. The smooth and refreshing character of cold brew coffee pairs well with light and zesty flavours, making it an excellent choice for warmer weather. 

Experiment and Explore 

The beauty of coffee pairing lies in experimentation and exploration. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different coffees with various foods to discover new perfect pairings. Whether you’re hosting a coffee tasting event or simply indulging in a quiet moment of culinary bliss, the world of specialty coffee and food pairing offers endless possibilities for enjoyment. 

Final Thoughts 

Pairing specialty coffee with food is an exciting experience well worth indulging in. By mastering the art of coffee pairing, you can elevate your enjoyment of specialty coffee to new heights, unlocking a world of flavor combinations and sensory delights.  

So, grab your favorite brew, gather some delicious snacks, and embark on a journey of coffee pairing perfection. Cheers to good coffee and great food!