When Jyothi shared her heartfelt story about filter coffee and the memories it evokes, it struck a chord with so many of us. Coffee, in all its forms, has a way of creating connections—not just to people but to moments in time. Jyothi’s mornings at Sri Ramachandra University, punctuated by the aroma of filter kaapi and the serenity of the Siva Temple, beautifully illustrated how coffee can become a ritual that weaves into the fabric of our lives.
This got me share about my journey with coffee and how, during a time of global uncertainty, she turned an experiment into a heartfelt tradition and now a product of Nutreat.
My Experiment of Coffee with Chickpeas
It was during the COVID-19 lockdowns, a period when most of us were seeking comfort and creating new routines, that I found myself at the crossroads of innovation and necessity. My 9-year-old daughter, curious about coffee’s allure, wanted to try the rich, bold drink she often saw many enjoying. But like many parents, I hesitated—coffee, with its caffeine content, didn’t seem like the best choice for my child.
This concern planted the seed for an idea. Googled and found Chickpeas in my pantry and read about the articles and it's origin. I felt chickpeas would be quite interesting and add up some flavour for our boring milk as we are not good coffee fans.
I began experimenting—sprouting, sun-drying, roasting, and grinding chickpeas to craft a drink that mimicked the texture, flavor, and even the aroma of coffee. First time it was a disaster and again few days later the second trail, OOPS....
After many such attempts me and my daughter found result was nothing short of remarkable. My daughter took to the drink immediately, enjoying its earthy notes and comforting warmth. Over time, chickpea coffee became a family ritual.
Coffee: A Vessel for Memories
The magic of coffee lies not just in the bean but in the memories it creates. Whether it’s made from Arabica beans, robusta, or roasted chickpeas, coffee has the ability to connect people through its warmth, aroma, and flavor.
The act of brewing coffee—hearing the kettle whistle, watching the steam rise, and inhaling the rich aroma—creates an almost meditative experience. For me, it wasn’t just about giving my daughter a cup of coffee; it was about crafting a drink that became part of their shared moments during a time of uncertainty.
Whether it’s the first sip that sparks conversation or the last one that leaves you longing for more, coffee’s ability to stir emotions is universal. The origin of the bean, the presence of caffeine, or even the color of the brew matters less than the feeling it evokes. A steaming cup of coffee—or chickpea coffee—has the power to turn an ordinary moment into a cherished memory.
Flavors and Colors That Bond
Flavors and colors are an integral part of why coffee, in any form, holds such sway over our hearts. The deep brown of brewed coffee or the nutty beige of chickpea coffee feels comforting, like an embrace in a cup. The taste—whether bold and bitter, smooth and creamy, or nutty and earthy—lingers, tying moments together like an invisible thread.
For me and my daughter, chickpea coffee became a symbol of creativity and adaptability. It was a way to bond over shared experiences, a warm reminder that even during challenging times, joy can be found in the simplest of pleasures.
Brewing Chickpea Coffee the Filter Way
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Chickpea coffee can be brewed just like traditional filter coffee, offering a familiar experience with a unique twist. Here’s how you can do it:
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Prepare the Decoction:
- Add 2-3 teaspoons of ground chickpea coffee to a traditional South Indian filter or French press.
- Pour hot water over the grounds, allowing it to steep and drip. This process mimics the rich decoction of filter coffee.
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Make the Coffee:
- Heat milk (or a plant-based alternative) and mix it with the brewed chickpea coffee.
- Add sugar or jaggery to taste.
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Serve with Love:
- Pour the chickpea coffee into a traditional tumbler and davara set or your favorite mug, and enjoy the warm, nutty aroma and earthy flavor.
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