When it comes to classic breakfast offerings, eggs and coffee are often at the top of the list. However, a recent trend on social media has combined these two staples in an unconventional way: by cracking an egg, shell and all, into black coffee while it’s brewing. Though this may seem unusual to many, the concept of egg in coffee is actually steeped in history and tradition.
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History of Egg Coffee
While Sweden is renowned for its beautiful fjords, fresh salmon, and ABBA anthems, it is also known for a unique coffee tradition: Swedish Egg Coffee. This beverage, also referred to as Scandinavian Coffee or Hungarian Coffee, offers a distinct experience. Contrary to what its name suggests, this method of brewing coffee did not originate in Sweden or Scandinavia, but rather in the American Midwest during the 19th century. It was brought over by Scandinavian immigrants who settled in the Midwest, bringing with them this unique coffee preparation technique.
In Vietnam, a similar concoction known as “Cà Phê Trứng” emerged in Hanoi during the 1940s as a creative response to milk shortages. This rich and creamy coffee delicacy is made by whipping egg yolks with sugar and condensed milk to create a frothy, custard-like topping over strong Vietnamese coffee. The result is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, with the bold bitterness of the coffee perfectly complementing the sweet, velvety egg cream.
The Science Behind the Egg
In Swedish Egg Coffee, the addition of eggs adds richness and creaminess to the brew, much like their use in desserts. Specifically, the egg whites help clarify the coffee, removing impurities that can contribute to a bitter taste. However, there are some food safety concerns to keep in mind. Raw eggs carry the risk of salmonella, and while the hot water used in brewing Swedish Egg Coffee does cook the egg, it may not always reach a temperature high enough to fully eliminate this risk. Therefore, it’s recommended to use the freshest pasteurized eggs available to minimize any potential health risks.
Swedish Egg Coffee Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 fresh egg
– 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons of coarsely ground coffee
– 1 cup of water
– 1 cup of ice-cold water
– Sugar and milk to taste
Method:
1. Start by boiling the first cup of water in a small saucepan.
2. Crack the egg, including the shell, into a cup and stir it thoroughly.
3. Mix the ground coffee into the egg, ensuring it is well combined.
4. Add the egg-coffee mixture to the boiling water and let it boil for 5 minutes, being careful not to let it overflow.
5. After boiling, remove the mixture from heat and add the ice-cold water. This will cause the egg and coffee clumps to sink to the bottom, making it easier to pour the coffee while leaving behind the solid bits.
6. Pour the coffee through a fine-mesh strainer or use a French press to filter out the remaining solids.
7. Enjoy your Swedish Egg Coffee with sugar and milk to taste.
This unusual yet fascinating coffee tradition highlights how different cultures adapt and innovate with everyday ingredients, resulting in unique flavors and experiences that continue to intrigue and delight coffee lovers worldwide.