You might be surprised to learn that you can brew coffee without roasting the beans at all. It’s called green coffee, and it’s made using raw, unroasted beans. This way of preparing coffee is gaining popularity as a lighter, gentler alternative to the usual dark roast. If you’ve ever wondered about trying something new with your coffee routine, green coffee infusions might be the answer.
Green coffee, sometimes referred to as “green coffee tea”, is made by steeping or simmering the raw beans in water. The result is a mild, refreshing drink with far less bitterness than traditional coffee and a much lighter caffeine hit. It’s a good choice for anyone who enjoys herbal teas or wants a low-caffeine option that still offers that comforting sense of a warm cup.
What Is Green Coffee Exactly?
It all starts with the raw coffee bean. Coffee beans are green and hard before roasting, which turns them dark and brings out those rich, bold flavours. They contain more natural compounds, including something called chlorogenic acid, which is mostly lost during roasting. This compound is often linked with health benefits, although the drink is enjoyed just as much for its clean, subtle taste.
What Does It Taste Like?
The flavour of green coffee is nothing like the brew you might be used to. It has more in common with a light herbal infusion or green tea. Depending on how it’s prepared, you might notice grassy notes, a touch of sourness or even something a little nutty. It’s a soft flavour with none of the bitterness or bold punch of roasted coffee.
Is There Much Caffeine in It?
Yes, green coffee still contains caffeine, but in much smaller amounts. It depends on your method and how long you let it steep. You’ll still get a slight energy lift, but it’s far gentler and more gradual. For people looking to cut back on caffeine but not give up coffee altogether, this can be a good step.
How to Make Green Coffee at Home
There are two common ways to brew green coffee, and both are simple. You can use whole green beans or ground green coffee, depending on what you have.
Using Whole Beans
Because green beans are very dense and hard, they need to be soaked before brewing.
- Soak around 20 grams of whole beans in 300 to 400 millilitres of water overnight
- In the morning, bring the water and beans to a gentle boil
- Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes
- Strain the liquid and serve warm or chilled
Using Ground Green Coffee
This is quicker and doesn’t need any soaking.
- Add one or two teaspoons of green coffee powder to a mug
- Pour in hot water (about 90 degrees Celsius, not boiling)
- Let it steep for 10 minutes
- Stir, strain if needed, and enjoy
Some people like to add lemon or honey, while others prefer it plain. Try it both ways to see what suits your taste.
Worth a Try?
Green coffee won’t replace a strong flat white or espresso if that’s what you crave in the morning, but it’s a nice alternative for later in the day. It offers a lighter, refreshing option with less caffeine, and the flavour is gentle and calming. If you’re the kind of person who enjoys herbal teas or likes experimenting with your drinks, green coffee is a great one to explore.
It’s also quite easy to prepare, with no need for specialist equipment or ingredients. So if you’re looking for something new to sip on, green coffee could be a good place to start.