Eggs and Coffee: Presenting the wake-up call
While freshly brewed coffee offers a significant caffeine kick, some experts argue that egg coffee could possibly be a healthier alternative. The coffee and egg mix has long been served in various cultures such as Scandinavian, Vietnamese, and others. The first egg coffee was created by a man named Giảng in the 1940s during a shortage of fresh milk, which was the preferred choice along with coffee. This caused the start of the ‘trend’ in some parts of the world, especially after the energy surge that this new mix had to offer.
Usually, it is prepared by grinding coffee beans and mixing them with eggs, and boiling them in hot water to create a stronger caffeine dose.
Experts say that proteins in egg whites are broken down at high temperatures (i.e. boiling water for example) and then bind to macromolecules such as tannins (tannins are responsible for the bitter taste). Therefore the egg whites separate the ground beans from the water easily extracting the bitterness from the grounds and at same time enhancing the caffeine. If done properly, the outcome is a clear brew with low (to no) bitterness and acidity.
Egg coffee: Is it healthy?
According to some experts, this may be a healthier alternative as it keeps you feeling full for a long time period. The coupled impact of protein and fat plus a stronger caffeine boost is a good choice although you should consider the calories involved where it reaches approximately 200 calories. However, this could be a substitute for breakfast for some people. Just be careful not to have a few cups a day.
Some experts say that mixing raw egg and hot black coffee before doing a workout can help with weight loss in addition to providing some energy. The evidence supports the fact that the egg coffee drink does in fact function when consumed before exercise. The combination of caffeine with protein results in easy digestion of the fat present in the eggs. This boosts the energy levels required. However, other factors also should be considered as it depends on your body and your diet, but generally speaking, some nutritionists praise protein shakes as they hold a higher nutritional value for bodybuilders.
The concern when consuming raw eggs lies in Salmonella (harmful bacteria found in raw eggs). Other diet experts say that boiling water does in fact eliminate the bacteria, neutralizing any negative impact.
Having a cup a day of this strange mix may help in fact protect against cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, an egg a day will not raise the risk of heart disease in healthy people, according to a panel of nutrition experts.
There are a few recipes, we present one of them :
For the Foam:
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Coffee:
- 2 ounces (60 grams) French roast coffee, finely ground
- 4 1/8 cups of hot water
- Cocoa powder, optional
Make the Eggy Foam
Prep the ingredients.
Combine the egg yolks, condensed milk, and vanilla in the bowl of a stand mixer. Beat with the wire whisker on high for about 10 minutes. The appearance should be similar to a cake batter, not especially frothy.
To test for the right consistency, spoon a small amount of the foam on top of a glass of water. If it floats it has the right consistency. If not, whip it for a few more minutes.
Assemble the Egg Coffee
1) Brew the coffee according to your preferred method. Reserve about half a cup for later use.
2) Divide the remaining brewed coffee among 4 to 6 cups. If desired, set each cup in a small bowl of hot water to prolong the warmth of the coffee.
3) Gently spoon some of the whipped egg foam onto the top of each coffee, 1 to 2 tablespoons per cup.
4) Pour a bit of the reserved coffee through the foam in each cup. Dust with cocoa powder if desired. Serve immediately.
Raw Egg Warning
Consuming raw and lightly cooked eggs poses a risk of foodborne illness.
1) "Traditional Swedish Egg Coffee" Published By The Spruce Eats.
2) "Egg With Coffee Is A-OK, But Skip The Side Of Bacon" Published By NPR.
3) "Egg coffee: why you should be drinking it" Published By Arabian Business