How did coffee and latte art evolve? Coffee, a beverage that has become an essential part of many people’s daily lives, has a rich and varied history.
In this article, we will explore the journey of coffee development and how stunning latte art has become an integral part of coffee culture.
World’s First Coffee
The history of coffee began in the Ethiopian region of East Africa in the 9th century. Legend has it that a herdsman named Kaldi first discovered the magic of coffee beans. When he saw his goats becoming more energized after eating coffee berries, Kaldi tried the fruit himself and felt more energized. This was the beginning of coffee consumption. Later, the knowledge of coffee beans spread to the Arabian region, the first region to process coffee beans into a beverage.
From there, the coffee beverage spread across the globe and became one of the most popular drinks to date. The coffee bean has inspired various cultures and become a symbol of encounters, conversations and social dynamics around the world. We cannot doubt the impact of this tiny coffee bean on the course of human history.
Spread to Arabia and the Islamic World
Coffee then spread to the Arabian Peninsula. There, coffee beans were first roasted and made into a drink. In Arabia, coffee became a very popular drink under the name “qahwa.” Knowledge of coffee then spread through the Islamic world and became an integral part of their culture.
The Arrival of Coffee in Europe
Coffee was first introduced to Europe by Venetian traders in the 16th century. At first, coffee was only available to the nobility. But, over time, coffee became a popular drink across Europe. It soon paved the way for the development of coffee shops that popped up in various European cities. These coffeehouses became gathering places for intellectuals and artists, who often held philosophical discussions over a cup of coffee.
The arrival of coffee in Europe also sparked interest in botany, with European scientists beginning to explore how to grow and process coffee beans. In addition, coffee also influenced European culture by quickly bringing a new lifestyle of elegant coffee drinking rituals with the development of famous coffee literature.
Coffee Journey to America
In the 17th century, coffee arrived in the United States. Legend has it that a Dutchman brought coffee seeds to New Amsterdam (now New York). From there, coffee spread across America and became one of the country’s most beloved beverages.
The 19th century saw a revolution in coffee production. The invention of coffee bean separating machines and a more efficient roasting process turned coffee into a commodity that was more accessible to the general public.
Starbucks and the Rise of Quality Coffee
In 1971, Starbucks was founded in Seattle, Washington. This was an important step in the journey of coffee development as Starbucks popularized high-quality coffee drinks and created a distinct coffee culture. Over time, Starbucks grew into a famous cafe chain around the world, offering a wide variety of coffee beans and unique coffee drinks. They are also famous for their innovations in serving coffee, such as espresso and lattes.
Starbucks is also committed to sustainable and sustainable coffee purchasing, maintaining good relationships with coffee farmers in various countries. With this, Starbucks is not only a place to enjoy coffee, but also a part of the journey of global coffee culture development.
Origin of Latte Art
Latte art is an art that involves aesthetic appearance in a cup of coffee by drawing pictures or patterns on the surface of espresso garnished with milk. It first appeared in Italy in the 1980s.
Latte Art Techniques and Creativity on Coffee
Latte art requires a great deal of skill and diligence. Proficient baristas can create a variety of stunning designs, including hearts, flowers, and even faces.
The development of coffee and latte art has experienced many important stages in its history.
From its beginnings as a bean discovered in Ethiopia to a global beverage, coffee has changed the way we enjoy our leisure time. Latte art, with its stunning beauty, has added a new artistic dimension to our coffee culture.