<\/span><\/h3>\n
If you are a coffee lover, be prepared as it seems the coffee lingo varies throughout Spain.<\/p>\n
Read on and we\u2019ll show you how to order that perfect cuppa joe like a local.<\/p>\n
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Coffee Culture in Spain<\/h3>\n
Drinking coffee is a big part of Spanish culture, including drinking a cup while sitting together after a meal, known as sobremesa. The Spanish people will typically have a coffee first thing in the morning with their breakfast (a sweet roll or pastry) to get them started for the day. This is when they usually drink a cafe con leche (coffee with milk).
Then at around 11am, they stop for a short break known as the Almuerzo. They order another coffee and eat a snack like a bocadillo (a type of sandwich served on a baguette). This is when they usually order a cafe solo (strong, black coffee) served in a tiny glass.
Spaniards drink coffee mainly in bars and cafes rather than at home. If at work, Spaniards will pop out for a coffee break with their colleagues and if meeting with friends they would most likely sit outside on a terraza instead of inviting someone over to their home for a cup of coffee.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n
<\/h3>\nHistory of Spanish Coffee<\/h3>\n
Coming from North America, we often think of Spanish coffee as a piping hot mug of coffee with rum or other spirits and topped with whipped cream. This is only partially true.<\/p>\n
Historical facts<\/strong><\/p>\n According to The Spanish Coffee Federation (FEC – Federaci\u00f3n Espa\u00f1ola del Caf\u00e9), the very first Spaniard to drink coffee was a Jesuit missionary named Pedro Paez. He was enslaved in Ethiopia in the early days of the 17th Century and in his memoir, “Hist\u00f3ria da Eti\u00f3pia”, he describes the drink as a dark, bitter infusion. It then took another 100 years before the Borbon dynasty brought coffee to the country, formally introducing Spain to coffee.<\/p>\n In 1764, Italians known as the Gippini brothers opened the first caf\u00e9 in Madrid. The Spaniards were quick to recognize a good thing when they saw it, and more caf\u00e9s quickly sprang up in the cities of Barcelona, La Coruna, Bilbao, Valencia and Cartagena, eventually sprouting all over the country.<\/p>\n As of January 2022, various studies have shown that Spaniards drink 2.2 cups of coffee per day on average. What surprised me the most while doing my research is that capsule coffee has become the coffee of choice for Spaniards. Seven out of ten households use a coffee capsule machine, and more than half (56 per cent) use it every day or almost every day, as 84 per cent of those interviewed think it is cleaner and 89 per cent think it is quicker and simpler. Despite this love for coffee, 79 percent think it necessary to change their coffee capsule consumption habits to protect and maintain the environment.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n \u00a0If you have a preference on the whether you drink your coffee from a mug or glass: para llevar<\/strong> – Normal bars and restaurants didn’t use to offer to-go options. This started during the COVID-19 pandemic to aid social distancing and avoid overcrowding in cafes. You can order your coffee to-go by asking for your preferred drink followed by para llevar<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” custom_padding=”37px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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” disabled_on=”on|on|on” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” disabled=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n *NOTE*<\/strong> Coffee in Spain is hardly served piping hot. It is usually served at a temperature that is hot without burning your tongue. Caf\u00e9 Solo<\/strong> \u2013 the most commonly ordered type of coffee in Spain. Caf\u00e9 solo is a small and very strong black coffee usually served in a small glass, slightly larger than a thimble! A real espresso.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 con Leche<\/strong> \u2013 is the next most popular way to drink coffee, especially first thing in the morning. Usually made with 1-2 shots of espresso. It is the Spanish version of a latte – milk is poured into a metal jug then steamed using the steam wand of the espresso machine.<\/p>\n In Andalusia, it is called a Mitad<\/strong> (meaning \u00bd coffee \u00bd milk).<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Bombon<\/strong> \u2013 this is similar to a caf\u00e9 con leche. Usually served in a small glass with condensed milk at the bottom and a shot of espresso slowly poured in. Some places will serve an espresso in a cup with a packet of condensed milk for customers to add themselves.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Americano<\/strong> \u2013 similar to a caf\u00e9 solo but served in a larger glass or cup with more water.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Cortado<\/strong> \u2013 a strong black coffee similar to caf\u00e9 solo but with a drop of milk. Usually made with 2 shots of espresso. Much like a cappuccino.<\/p>\n In Andalusia, this is known as a Largo<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 con Hielo<\/strong> \u2013 a usual summertime variation and sometimes called caf\u00e9 frio (iced coffee). If you are like me and need to add some sweetener in your coffee, ask for a cafe of your choice \u201cy un vaso de hielo\u201d (glass with ice cubes). That way, you can melt your sugar or honey then pour your mixed coffee over ice.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 del Tiempo\u00a0<\/strong>– a favorite summertime drink in la comunidad Valenciana. It is black coffee with ice and lemon slices.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Sombra<\/strong> or Caf\u00e9 Manchado<\/strong> is mostly milk with just a splash of coffee. This is my personal favorite because I find most Spanish coffee too bitter.<\/p>\n In Andalusia , this is called a Nube<\/strong> (cloud).<\/p>\n Cafe Templada<\/strong> – coffee mixed with hot and cool milk, making it “templada” or “temperate” – ready to drink.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Suizo<\/strong> \u2013 a caf\u00e9 solo topped with whipped cream.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Carajillo<\/strong> \u2013 this is the famous \u2018Spanish coffee\u2019. A traditional caf\u00e9 carajillo is a caf\u00e9 solo with a small measure of brandy. Make sure you specify which alcohol you want (whisky, anisette, rum or Bailey\u2019s) when you order or ask the caf\u00e9 which they recommend. Some ice cream shops also offer this type of coffee.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Trif\u00e1sico<\/strong> \u2013 a specialty coffee with alcohol from Catalonia. It is an espresso shot layered with milk and a splash of alcohol.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Perfumat<\/strong> – another specialty coffee with alcohol from Catalonia. This time, a shot of anis is added.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Asi\u00e1tico<\/strong> – a specialty coffee with alcohol beverage from Cartagena. Its origins are traced back to the early 20th century when sailors coming in from Asia would order a coffee with condensed milk and brandy on their arrival. Somewhere during this time, the drink evolved into the modern version of this coffee cocktail. Licor 43, a Spanish liqueur, now makes up a Caf\u00e9 Asi\u00e1tico, along with a touch of cinnamon, lemon zest and topped with a coffee bean. Served in a special shaped glass.<\/p>\n Caf\u00e9 Descafeinado<\/strong> – a decaf. coffee, either from the machine (de maquina) or sachet (de sobre), served black (solo) or with milk (con lech\u00e9). So if you\u00b4d like a machine-made decaf coffee with milk, you need to ask for a \u201ccaf\u00e9 con leche descafeinado de maquina\u201d.<\/p>\n Affogato<\/strong> – I decided to include it in this section because although the debate continues, I consider the affogato as a beverage. It is basically vanilla ice cream and espresso althoug the best is really a scoop of vanilla gelato. Originally invented in Italy, the word \u201caffogato\u201d literally translates as \u201cdrowned\u201d in English. This is fitting, as the affogato is no more than a scoop of ice cream \u201cdrowned\u201d in espresso.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n We have faithfully used a Bialetti for the past 9 years and can\u2019t see changing our habit. No plastic waste (except for the bag the coffee comes in) which helps the environment. Like some Spanish households we have 3 different sizes that suit our needs. 3-cup, 6-cup and 9-cup. That sounds extreme but the 3-cup is really 1 American size cup of coffee.<\/p>\n For breakfast, I use the 6-cup Bialetti to make 2 coffees for John and I. I servie it in a 500 ml size cup which leaves plenty of room for frothed milk.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” custom_padding=”22px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/suitcaseinspain.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/sten-ritterfeld-wdF9uixHV-A-unsplash-1024×769.jpg” title_text=”sten-ritterfeld-wdF9uixHV-A-unsplash” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n Our friends in Rome gave us our first Bialetti 11 years ago. We now have it in 3 sizes and carry one with us wherever we know we can brew our own cup of coffee.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”22px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/suitcaseinspain.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Cafe-molido-Espresso-para-cafetera-italiana-y-espresso-Lavazza.png” title_text=”Caf\u00e9-molido-Espresso-para-cafetera-italiana-y-espresso-Lavazza” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n This is our favorite store-bought blend. When brewed in a Bialietti, weare guaranteed a perfect cup of coffee.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,2_3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”22px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/suitcaseinspain.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Nespresso-Aeroccino.jpg” title_text=”Nespresso-Aeroccino” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n The best gift anyone has ever given us! We use this at least 2 times a day (for the last 6 years) and take it with us wherever we know we can make our own cup of coffee. Another reason I can’t travel light.\u00a0 [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||40px|||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”15px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/suitcaseinspain.com\/cafe-asiatico\/” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Caf\u00e9 Asi\u00e1tico” button_alignment=”left” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_button=”on” button_text_color=”#FFFFFF” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” button_bg_color=”#2F9A64″ button_bg_enable_color=”on” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/suitcaseinspain.com\/cafe-trifasico\/” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Caf\u00e9 Trif\u00e1sico” button_alignment=”left” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_button=”on” button_text_color=”#FFFFFF” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” button_bg_color=”#2F9A64″ button_bg_enable_color=”on” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Did you know there are over a dozen types of coffee offered in Spain? Read on and you’ll learn how to order that perfect cuppa joe like a local. You’ll also learn some useful Spanish vocabulary!<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":223812,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1325,1349,1333],"tags":[286,885,227],"class_list":["post-224037","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-food-drinks-barista","category-shopping-travel-lifestyle","category-traveling-101","tag-cafe","tag-cafe-con-leche","tag-coffee"],"yoast_head":"\nUseful vocabulary for ordering coffee<\/h3>\n
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Taza:<\/strong> A mug with a handle
Vaso:<\/strong> A small clear glass with no handle. Most traditional bars in Spain will serve coffee this way.<\/p>\n16 Different Types of Coffee<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nHow we drink our coffee<\/h3>\n
Bialetti<\/h4>\n
Lavazza Espresso<\/h4>\n
Nespresso Aeroccino<\/h4>\n
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<\/p>\nRecipes<\/h3>\n