Jamaican coffee is one of the most popular coffee drinks in Jamaica and is also known as blue mountain coffee or “mountain coffee.” It is exported to several countries around the world, particularly the United States and Canada, where it’s gaining a remarkable following among those who enjoy a cappuccino and espresso-type coffee.
Making authentic Jamaican Coffee can be a challenge for some, but let me break down all the steps you need to take so that you can make this delicious coffee drink.
History of Jamaican Coffee
Coffee was introduced to Jamaica in 1728 by Governor Sir Nicholas Lawes, who planted coffee trees on his plantation in the Blue Mountains. The first commercial coffee plantation was established in 1730 by a naval officer named Sir Thomas Modyford, who imported thirty enslaved West Africans for this. The climate of the Blue Mountains is perfect for growing coffee, and it is still considered to be perhaps the best coffee-growing region in the world.
Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee is one of the most expensive coffees in the world. The reason for this is that there is only a small amount of it that can be grown because it must come from a special area in the Blue Mountains where the growing conditions are ideal. An additional factor that contributes to its expense is that only a certain number of bags can be exported each year. This amount varies from year to year, but generally, there is never enough to meet public demand (which may be why it sells for such high prices).
Ingredients
- Ground Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee
- Water (freshly filtered water is best)
- 1/4 Teaspoon of Vanilla Extract
- 3/4 Cup Whole Milk
- 1 Tablespoon of Brown Sugar
Steps to Make Jamaican Coffee
Step 1
Bring the water to a rolling boil in a saucepan over medium heat. If you’re using a French press, wait until the water is just shy of boiling.
Step 2
Remove from heat and add the coffee grounds. Stir gently for 30 seconds.
Step 3
Add the vanilla extract and brown sugar. Stir gently once or twice. Most people prefer Jamaican coffee with lots of sugar because they like the taste better than plain old regular coffee with no sugar at all. The amount of sugar that should be added is up to personal preference, but I would recommend starting off by adding about 1/4 cup for every 6 ounces of liquid in your cup or mug.
If that’s not sweet enough for your taste buds, add more until it reaches your desired level of sweetness.
Step 4
Return to heat and bring back to a boil.
Step 5
Remove from heat again and let sit for 30 seconds.
Step 6
Using a ladle, skim off any foam that has formed on top.
Step 7
Pour into your favorite mug, top with frothed milk, and serve immediately with cream or condensed milk on the side if desired. And that’s it! Your hot cup of Jamaican coffee is ready to drink.
Conclusion
So, how do you make a pot of Jamaican? The secret truly is in the beans, but there is more. The best beans you can find are whole beans and fresh roasted. Jamaican is not a morning coffee at all. Too strong! It’s meant to be enjoyed after dinner or later in the evening as part of your evening “treat.”
In Jamaica, it’s served with luncheon meats and tub cheeses, boiled yams, and robust flavors. A pot of Jamaican coffee makes an excellent gift too!
