Watermelon Flavored Coffee _ A Fresh Twist on Your Brew!

It’s interesting how taste and smell can play such a big role in bringing back memories. When I think about this past summer, the first thing that comes to mind isn’t the usual watermelon scent from the fruit, but the surprising watermelon aroma I experienced in coffee.

I had this fun and unique experience at a café in Sejong called 춘커피, where I tried their summer special: Watermelon-infused coffee beans. Not only was it an exciting drink, but it tasted great too! The owner clearly has a real passion for selecting and roasting coffee beans. At 춘커피, you can get a hand-drip coffee for about 3,500 to 4,500 won, which is quite affordable. The selection of beans changes regularly, and they even have a separate menu for beans that are especially good when served iced.

"Watermelon in Coffee? A Flavorful Surprise!"

What if I told you that you could enjoy the refreshing taste of watermelon with your favorite cup of coffee? Sounds surprising, right? Well, watermelon-flavored coffee is becoming a popular trend, and it’s not just some random flavor choice. It’s made using a cool process called infusion (인퓨전). Let’s dive into how this unique flavor is created and why people are loving it!

• infusion (인퓨전) - 주입, 우려내기

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How Watermelon-Flavored Coffee is Made

Watermelon-flavored coffee is crafted using a method called infused coffee (인퓨즈드 커피). This means that the coffee beans are mixed with specific flavors—like watermelon! There are a couple of ways to do this, but they all aim to give the beans a fruity, refreshing twist.

1. Fermentation Process (발효 과정)

One of the most natural ways to add watermelon flavor to coffee is through fermentation (발효). This is when the coffee beans are soaked in something, like watermelon juice, and left to sit for a while. During this time, the beans absorb the flavors from the watermelon.

How does it work? The coffee beans, when mixed with watermelon juice, take in the sweet and fresh flavors. After a few days, the beans not only taste like coffee but also have a light watermelon flavor. This process is natural and gives a subtle, fruity note to the coffee without making it too overpowering.

2. Adding Flavor (첨가물 사용)

Another way to create watermelon-flavored coffee is by adding natural or artificial flavorings (천연 또는 인공 향료). Instead of soaking the beans in juice, special watermelon extracts (추출물) or flavors are mixed in. This method is faster and ensures a stronger watermelon taste. It’s the technique often used in mass-produced coffees, like those you find in supermarkets.

Both methods work well, but they create slightly different flavors. Fermentation gives a more natural, gentle taste, while adding flavorings delivers a stronger and more direct watermelon flavor.

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Examples of Watermelon-Flavored Coffee

Now that we know how it’s made, let’s look at some real-world examples of watermelon-flavored coffee!

1. San Rafael Washed (콜롬비아산 라파엘 워시드)

This coffee is made using the fermentation method. The coffee beans are soaked in watermelon juice and left to absorb its fruity sweetness. The result? A naturally flavored coffee with just a hint of watermelon. It’s like having a regular cup of coffee with a light, refreshing twist.

2. Nespresso Juicy Watermelon

Nespresso took a different approach. They used Arabica beans (아라비카 원두) and added watermelon flavor after roasting. This method gives a stronger, more noticeable watermelon taste. It’s perfect for people who like a more distinct flavor in their coffee, and it’s super easy to enjoy with their capsule system.

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Why Try Watermelon Coffee?

Watermelon coffee may sound unusual, but it’s a fun way to enjoy two amazing flavors in one! For coffee lovers who like experimenting with new tastes, it’s a great way to mix up their usual routine. Plus, watermelon’s light, sweet flavor pairs really well with coffee’s rich, bitter notes.

It’s especially great for iced coffee (아이스드 커피) in the summer. The fruity flavor adds a refreshing feel to the drink, making it perfect for hot days when you want something cool but still need your caffeine fix.

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Things to Know About Watermelon Coffee

While watermelon coffee sounds exciting, it’s important to remember that coffee beans don’t naturally taste like watermelon. The flavor is added through either the fermentation process or by mixing in flavor extracts. In its raw form, coffee usually has earthy, nutty, or even chocolaty flavors, depending on how it’s roasted.

If you like trying new things, give both the natural fermentation and flavor-infused versions a shot. You might prefer the soft, subtle taste of fermented watermelon coffee, or you might enjoy the bold, sweet flavor of infused coffee.

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A Fresh Take on Coffee

Watermelon-flavored coffee is a fun and surprising way to enjoy your cup of joe. Whether you try the San Rafael Washed for a natural, light watermelon taste or the Nespresso Juicy Watermelon for a quick and easy flavored coffee, you’re sure to experience something new and exciting.

So next time you’re looking to mix up your coffee routine, why not give watermelon coffee a try? It’s a refreshing, summery twist on the classic drink that’s sure to wake up your taste buds! ☕