Written for Daily Scandinavian by Karoline Gore
Nothing compares to the aroma of roasting coffee beans when brewing in the morning or throughout the day. The delicious beverage, whether its iced or piping hot, is loved throughout Scandinavia. Read more about Scandinavian coffee culture.
Finland made first place in an international survey of countries that drink the most coffee. The Finns lead with 12kg capita per year with Norwegians (Norway) coming in second with 9.9kg according to the International Coffee Organization (ICO).
Java loving Scandinavian countries
Java loving Scandinavian countries like Denmark and Sweden also made it to the top ten. That proves the rich coffee culture continues to dominate in Scandinavia. From the region’s high-level international barista competitions to the popularity of coffee bars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the world’s leading coffee drinkers. There’s a reason why they have mastered brewing the perfect cup of joe.
Related: Scandinavian Coffee-Making Champions
Getting Down to Business
While Scandinavian countries are leading in the coffee-drinking business, they don’t rank high in the coffee-producing industry. Two of many leading coffee brands that are consumed in the region and around Europe are “Picnic” and “Wayne’s Coffee.” Around the world there are brewing guides that should be followed so choosing the right coffee that is affordable and helpful in the market, can benefit you.
Purchasing fair trade coffee is one way to be an advocate for more sustainably driven coffee while financially helping coffee farmers that meet safer requirements is another. When the money produced through Fair Trade goes directly to farmers it makes a difference in their lives and the taste of your coffee. If fair trade organizations are not proving to be helpful, donate to charities or buy directly. For the consumer it means richer, affordable coffee quality. Ensure that you get the most from your mug in the morning.
Related: Coffee-Lovers, Look to Sweden
Brewing Techniques
The average European drinks between one and a half to almost four cups of coffee a day. The most common method of brewing a steeping cup of coffee, is to of course, measure a tablespoon of ground coffee per 8-ounce cup. Depending on how you take it, you can increase the amount of coffee when needed. Ditch the K-cups for a French coffee press or drip coffee maker.
Unless, you plan on making traditional Scandinavian coffee, one of the oldest techniques of the Nordic region, is adding egg to your coffee. You add the egg to your coffee, as it boils, to produce a “mild flavor and powerful caffeine kick,” that rids the beans of its bitter flavors. Although it was created out of necessity, this traditional coffee style is almost like using a French press.
From light to medium and dark roasts, there is certainly more than one way to enjoy the fragrant coffee bean.
What To Know About Scandinavian Coffee Culture, written for Daily Scandinavian by Karoline Gore