If you want to make your dinner party last, what better way to keep it lively than by perking everyone up with some caffeine? The heat of coffee also stimulates the body and aids digestion, so even if you want to go decaf there are still benefits. We should take note from the Italians who never have a cappuccino after 11am, instead opting for something short and dark post-dinner, be it espresso, Americano or filter coffee. After all, that milky-froth can be filling – the last thing you want following a big meal.
So what are the best coffees to have after dinner? Here’s our run through of some simple coffees perfect for sipping, as well as more indulgent coffee-based drinks.
Short, dark burst
Starting with the classic option, a rich, short espresso that cleanses the pallet after dinner. For those worrying that espresso will keep you up all night, there’s actually less caffeine in a dark roast espresso than in filter coffee and light roasted coffee. Generally speaking, the longer coffee is roasted for, the more of the caffeine is taken out. Also, you only brew an espresso for around 20 seconds, which is not enough for a lot of caffeine to be drawn out of the beans, but good enough for us to savour an aromatic drink. For an award-winning bean, perfect for after dinner, try Hada Del Café’s rich, earthy espresso.
To get the party stared after dinner, these Espresso Martinis will shake you into action. The whole coffee bean garnish floating on top is a nice touch.
Savour for longer
If you prefer a longer coffee to sip on and want that extra caffeine kick to wake you up after lots to eat, then put on a pot of filter coffee – perfect for bringing to the table and sharing. This Fortnum and Mason after dinner blend comes in a tin that you’ll want to keep out on display. Why not offer up a selection of liqueurs at the same time so you can make liqueur coffees for everyone. Leave Amaretto, Tia Maria or Whisky out on the table with some whipped cream and ground cinnamon to sprinkle on top.
One touch coffee
For the ultimate in convenience, and also handy if your guests would all like different blends, try a pod coffee machine, which can make a range of Americanos (as well as teas, lattes and drinks for other occasions). The best after-dinner blend we’ve found is the CARTE NOIRE Café Long Aromatique. Made from Kenyan beans, it is both smooth and fruity.
Spice it up
The sweet and fragrant tones of cinnamon and cardamom match perfectly with coffee and as an added bonus cardamon helps with digestion. Try this delicious Pakistani Coffee with Cinnamon and Cardamon, which is lovingly handmade in a saucepan with milk to create a mild and not-too-heavy beverage. You could easily make it beforehand and keep warm, aerating it as suggested before serving.
Drowning in flavour
Not really a drink, but not exactly dessert either, offer up an Affogato if everyone’s too full for a heavy dessert but can manage some ice cream and coffee. Best made with good quality vanilla ice cream, you simply ‘drown’ it in a shot or two of espresso. (Affogato means ‘drowned’ in Italian). You can serve it with biscotti or amaretti biscuits or crumble in a little of any cake or biscuits you have in the cupboard.
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