John Miller
Mushroom coffee is a unique beverage made by blending ground coffee beans with medicinal mushroom extracts. It is said to offer a range of health benefits, from improved immunity to reduced inflammation. The process of making mushroom coffee involves brewing hot water with ground coffee and mushroom powder, allowing the mixture to steep, and then pressing down the plunger slowly to separate the coffee grounds. The longer the brew time, the stronger the flavour and the more health compounds are extracted. It's important to note that while medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries, there is limited scientific research on their effects, so consulting a doctor before trying mushroom coffee is recommended.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To combine the health benefits of coffee beans and medicinal mushrooms in one beverage |
| Ingredients | Coffee beans, mushroom powder, and water |
| Equipment | Cafetiere, French press, kettle, blender, or coffee maker |
| Water Type | Filtered, bottled, or tap water |
| Water Temperature | 200°F (93°C) |
| Water Quantity | 250g or 3 cups |
| Coffee Quantity | 15g or 6 tablespoons |
| Brewing Time | 6–12 minutes |
| Stirring | Yes |
| Plunging | Yes, slowly and steadily halfway |
| Cleaning | Clean the equipment thoroughly after use |
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What You'll Learn
Preparation and ingredients
To make mushroom coffee, you will need ground coffee and mushroom powder. The mushrooms used are typically medicinal mushrooms such as lion's mane, chaga, reishi, shiitake, cordyceps, and turkey tail. These mushrooms are believed to have various health benefits, including being rich in antioxidants, promoting immunity, and reducing inflammation.
The ratio of coffee to mushroom powder may vary depending on personal preference and the specific blend being used. As a starting point, you can use approximately 15 grams of ground coffee and mushroom mix for every 250 grams of water. If you are using a French press or cafetiere, you can preheat it by filling it with hot water, letting it sit for a minute, and then emptying the water.
For the mushroom coffee blend, you can either purchase a pre-made blend or create your own by grinding dried mushrooms and mixing them with ground coffee beans. The grind size should be medium to coarse to increase the extraction of compounds during brewing.
In terms of equipment, you will need a kettle, a way to measure the temperature of the water (such as a thermometer or a kettle with an adjustable temperature setting), and a French press, cafetiere, or another preferred brewing method. If you are using a French press or cafetiere, you will also need a spoon or stirrer to gently mix the grounds.
Finally, it is recommended to use filtered water for the best results, although regular tap water can also be used.
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Brewing methods
The first step to brewing mushroom coffee is to prepare your brewing environment. This step, though not official, is important to get a sense of neatness and calm. Next is to prepare the ingredients and the equipment. For one cup of coffee, you will need 15 grams of ground coffee and mushroom mix and 250 grams of water. You will also need a cafetiere, a kettle, and a jug of filtered water.
First, fill the cafetiere with hot water to preheat it. Let it sit for a minute, then empty the water into the sink. Place the ground mushroom coffee blend into the cafetiere. Pour the hot water into the cafetiere over the ground mushroom coffee. Use a spoon or stirrer to gently mix and agitate the coffee grounds and mushroom mix. Place the plunger and lid on the cafetiere but do not press it down.
Let the coffee and mushroom extract steep for about 6 to 12 minutes, depending on your desired strength. After the brewing time has elapsed, press down the plunger slowly and steadily halfway only. This ensures that you do not disturb the coffee grounds that have settled at the bottom of the cafetiere. Now, you are ready to pour the brewed mushroom coffee into your favourite mug or cup.
The longer you brew hot water, ground coffee, and mushrooms, the higher the potency of the compounds extracted. This is due to the 'extraction process', which occurs when hot water infuses with the ground particles and begins to extract desirable compounds such as caffeine, carbohydrates, lipids, melanoidin, and acids. The degree of extraction depends on factors including water temperature, brewing time, grind fineness, and the quantity/dose of used grounds. Thus, the grind size should match the brewing method. For instance, the pour-over method calls for medium-coarse ground mushroom coffee.
You can also make mushroom coffee in the form of a latte. Add mushroom powder, maple syrup, almond butter (optional), cacao powder, cinnamon, and sea salt to a small blender. Steam or heat dairy-free milk until hot and add to the blender.
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Extraction process
The extraction process for mushroom coffee involves pulling out the desirable compounds from the coffee grounds and mushrooms. This is achieved by infusing hot water with the ground particles. The compounds extracted from the mushrooms are called adaptogens, which may improve the body's response to stress. The degree of extraction depends on factors such as water temperature, brewing time, grind fineness, and the quantity of ground particles.
For optimal flavour extraction, it is recommended to grind the coffee beans just before brewing. The grind size can impact the extraction process and overall taste of the coffee. A medium-coarse grind is used to increase extraction. A longer brew time also enhances the extraction process, as it allows more compounds to be extracted into the cup.
When brewing mushroom coffee, it is important to pay attention to both the coffee and mushroom components to extract the best flavour and benefits. The ratio of coffee to water can be adjusted according to personal preference and the desired strength of flavour. For a standard 1-cup cafetiere, approximately 250g of hot water and 15g of coarsely ground coffee are used. The desired amount of mushroom coffee blend is then added according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The extraction process can be done using various brewing methods, such as pour-over, Aeropress, French press, or espresso machines. Each method has specific guidelines for grind size and water temperature to ensure optimal extraction. For example, the water temperature for pour-over and Aeropress should be between 195°F and 205°F (90°C to 96°C), while for a French press, slightly cooler water at around 200°F (93°C) is recommended.
The type and amount of mushrooms used can also impact the extraction process and the overall taste of the coffee. Some popular mushroom varieties for coffee include Lion's Mane, Chaga, Cordyceps, Reishi, and Turkey Tail. The mushrooms can be ground and mixed with the coffee grounds before brewing, or mushroom extract can be added to the hot coffee after brewing. The ratio of mushrooms to coffee can be adjusted according to personal preference, but a typical starting point is 1-2 tablespoons of ground mushrooms for every 8 ounces of brewed coffee.
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Health benefits
While mushroom coffee has gained popularity as a healthier alternative to regular coffee, it is important to note that the health claims associated with it remain largely unverified. Most studies on the benefits of medicinal mushrooms are based on animal or lab research, and there is a lack of well-designed clinical trials on humans. Additionally, it is unclear if the health benefits of mushrooms are retained after they are processed and blended into coffee drinks.
That being said, here are some potential health benefits that have been attributed to mushroom coffee:
Improved Cognition and Immune System: Medicinal mushrooms used in mushroom coffee, such as Chaga, Cordyceps, Reishi, Lion's Mane, and Turkey Tail, are known for their adaptogenic properties. Adaptogens are substances believed to enhance overall well-being and help the body adapt to stress. By supporting the brain and immune system, these adaptogens may improve cognitive function and boost immunity.
Reduced Caffeine Intake: Mushroom coffee typically contains about half the amount of caffeine as regular coffee, offering a gentler energy lift without the jitters and crash associated with higher caffeine consumption. This reduced caffeine intake can also improve sleep quality for those sensitive to caffeine.
Antioxidant Properties: Mushrooms are rich in compounds with antioxidant properties, including polyphenols. These antioxidants can support the immune system and help reduce inflammation in the body.
Nutrient Content: Mushrooms contain various nutrients, including B vitamins, vitamin D, selenium, and potassium. However, it is unclear if the extract used in mushroom coffee provides the same nutritional benefits as consuming whole mushrooms.
While these potential health benefits exist, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating mushroom coffee into your diet, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking medication. Additionally, it is worth noting that simply adding whole mushrooms to your diet can provide similar or even greater health benefits without the added cost of mushroom coffee.
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Cleaning the cafetiere
To clean a cafetiere, start by letting the coffee cool down. Empty the grounds from the cafetiere into the compost or trashcan, not down the sink, as this can cause a clog.
For a quick daily clean, add a few drops of liquid dish soap and some lukewarm water to the cafetiere. Plunge the plunger up and down until the water gets foamy, then dump out the soapy water. Rinse and plunge again, then scrub the plunger and the inside of the cafetiere with a sponge or bottle brush. Rinse until the water runs clear. Dry the inside with a clean paper towel.
For a deeper clean, disassemble the plunger and clean each piece individually with a thin paste made from baking soda and water. Use a sponge or bottle brush to scrub the pieces with the paste and rinse thoroughly. If there is hard water buildup, make a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water and use this to scrub the interior. Let all the pieces air dry, then reassemble the cafetiere.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom coffee is a combination of ground coffee and powdered medicinal mushrooms. It is a way to incorporate the nutritional benefits of mushrooms into your daily routine.
Medicinal mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, polyphenols, carotenoids, and polysaccharides. They can help improve immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health. Additionally, the mushrooms may offset some negative effects of coffee, such as jitters and acidity.
There are several types of medicinal mushrooms that can be used, including Lion's Mane, Chaga, Reishi, Shiitake, Cordyceps, and Turkey Tail. Each type of mushroom may offer specific health benefits. For example, Reishi is known for its calming properties, while Lion's Mane may improve brain function and focus.
The ratio of mushroom powder to coffee beans can vary depending on personal preference and the desired strength. A common recommendation is to use 15 grams of ground coffee and mushroom mix for 250 grams of water. This can be scaled up or down depending on the number of cups you wish to make.
Mushroom coffee can be brewed using various methods, including French press, pour-over, Turkish coffee, drip coffee, or espresso. The key factor is the extraction or brewing time, which should be longer for mushroom coffee to fully extract the beneficial compounds. Aim for a brew time of 6-12 minutes, adjusting based on your desired strength.
