Mocha coffee is one of the tastiest versions of coffee. Along with espresso and milk, a mocha has chocolate in it, giving it a characteristic taste. Artisanal coffees come with their own fruity or nutty subtle flavours but when you’re in a mood for something strong and chocolatey, you can never go wrong with a mocha. Let’s see what this coffee drink is all about!
History Of Mocha
Mocha coffee, also known as a mochaccino, is a popular coffee drink that combines espresso, milk, and chocolate. The history of mocha coffee dates back to the 16th century, when coffee was first introduced to Europe from the Middle East.
The city of Mocha or Al Mokha, located on the Red Sea coast of Yemen, was an important centre for coffee trade and was famous for its high-quality arabica coffee beans. Compared to coffee coming from other places which had more fruity notes, coffee beans coming from Mokha had traces of chocolate flavour. The word "mocha" became associated with coffee from this region and eventually came to refer to any coffee with chocolate flavouring.
The first mocha drinks were likely made by mixing coffee, cocoa powder, and milk or cream. The combination of chocolate and coffee proved to be a popular one, and the mocha drink quickly spread throughout Europe and eventually made its way to the Americas.
Over time, the mocha recipe evolved to include espresso, which replaced the traditional brewed coffee. The addition of espresso gave the mocha a stronger, more complex flavour that paired well with the chocolate.
Mocha’s Mother - The Bicerin
The name mocha was given to these coffee beans which have chocolate flavours. But the drink as we know it today was actually birthed in Italy by another coffee beverage called the bicerin. Bicerin has its roots in the city of Turin, Italy. Like mocha coffee, bicerin combines coffee with chocolate, but it also includes a layer of thick, creamy milk.
The origins of bicerin can be traced back to the 18th century, when Turin was a hub of European trade and culture. The city's cafes and coffee shops were gathering places for artists, writers, and intellectuals, and it was in this vibrant atmosphere that bicerin was born.
The drink is made by layering espresso, chocolate, and steamed milk in a small glass. The layers are carefully poured so that they do not mix, creating a visually striking three-layered drink. It is typically served with a small spoon so the customer can mix these three ingredients on their own.
Today, bicerin is a beloved tradition in Turin and can be found at many of the city's historic cafes and coffee shops. The drink has also gained popularity in other parts of Italy and around the world, where it is enjoyed as a luxurious treat or special occasion beverage.
How To Make A Mocha?
You can brew yourself a tasty cup of mocha by following this simple mocha recipe:
Ingredients:
1. 1 shot of espresso (approximately 1-1.5 fluid ounces)
2. 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder
3. 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
4. 6 ounces of steamed milk
5. Whipped cream (optional)
6. Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of espresso using your espresso machine or moka pot.
2. In a separate cup, mix together the cocoa powder and sugar.
3. Add the shot of espresso to the cocoa powder and sugar mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the steamed milk over the espresso and cocoa mixture, filling the cup to about 3/4 full.
5. Stir the mixture to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
6. Top with whipped cream (if desired) and garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder.
Note: You can adjust the amount of cocoa powder and sugar to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more sugar. If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, add more cocoa powder. Additionally, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as whole milk, almond milk, or soy milk. You can also use dark chocolate for a richer taste. Enjoy your homemade mocha coffee!
Today, mochas are enjoyed around the world and can be found on the menu at nearly every coffee shop. They can be made with a variety of milk types, chocolate flavours, and even flavoured chocolate syrups. The popularity of mocha coffee continues to grow, as more and more people discover the rich, delicious combination of coffee and chocolate. Come visit our Bombay Island Coffee experience centre at Vikhroli and enjoy a delicious cup of mocha, brewed with artisanal coffee!