Celebrate the Joys of Java for National Coffee Day

Did you know that a coffee bean is actually a seed? The coffee bean that you are familiar with is the pip of a stone fruit “cherry.” The pips are separated from the fruit, then dried, stored, milled, and roasted before they become coffee “beans.” These beans can then be ground and brewed into a delicious cup of coffee. Grab a hot cup of joe on September 29th for National Coffee Day.

For many, the morning cannot be started until there is some coffee consumption. One of the benefits of coffee is that it is a natural energy booster. Numerous other benefits come with drinking a cup of coffee (or even munching on coffee beans).

A cup of coffee pairs nicely with most meals, from a bagel to a slice of cake. However, coffee can be used to enhance the flavors in many dishes. Many recipes actually utilize the bitter taste of coffee!

Healthy Way to Start Your Morning

Coffee can provide numerous health benefits when drunk in moderation (as if you needed another reason to start your morning with a cup of coffee). Here are just a few more reasons to drink more coffee:

• Energy Boost: The caffeine in coffee is used by the brain for a chemical process that results in enhancing neuron activity. This in turn leads to an increase in energy levels as well as improved mood and memory.

• Essential Nutrients: Coffee has several nutrients that are essential to the body such as Vitamins B2, B5, and B3 which are all used for vital daily functions.

• Reduce Your Risk for Type 2 Diabetes: For an unknown reason, coffee has been shown in several studies to reduce the risk of people developing type 2 diabetes.

**Note: Too much caffeine can cause you to be nervous, anxious, feel jittery, and interrupt your sleep. And there are certain health conditions where drinking caffeinated coffee is contraindicated. Please check with your physician to see if you can tolerate caffeine before indulging.

Cooking with Coffee

Coffee is more than just the perfect morning drink; it is a flavor enhancer. For centuries people have been using coffee in their meals for a better taste. Here are some of my favorite foods that contain coffee:

• Chocolate Cake: The bitterness of coffee enhances the smooth flavor of chocolate significantly, making them the perfect pair.

• Pumpkin Spice Cake: Another cake that only requires a little bit of coffee to drastically change the overall flavor.

• Steak:Believe it or not, a steak covered in a rub made with coffee beans, sugar, and various spices is one of the best things you’ll ever taste.

• Coffee, Banana, and Cocoa Smoothie: A great breakfast for when you’re rushing out the door.

• Tiramisu: You can’t mention coffee-flavored foods without talking about the delicious dessert tiramisu.

There is no wrong way to enjoy coffee! Just don’t forget to grab a cup or even a handful of “beans” this September 29th for National Coffee Day.

Your Turn to Action: What is your favorite coffee recipe? Let me know in the comments below.

Like this post? Share it!